German Shepherd
Smart, strong and determined
German Shepherds 101
Herding groupCourage, intelligence and athleticism are the standout qualities of the German Shepherd Dog, a versatile breed popular as a reliable partner in military and law enforcement, as well as a devoted, protective family dog. The German Shepherd is also common in search-and-rescue work and dog sports.
Despite their reputation for seriousness, they can be playful, even silly, with their people. A sense of humor is required for their families, too, along with a powerful vacuum cleaner for a breed lovingly called the “German Shedder.”
What we love about German Shepherds
Versatile breed with dry sense of humor
GSDs have split into two types, with the arch-backed show-line dogs often criticized for structural issues uncommon in the working line dogs. Both types do best with consistent, clear training and handling.
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult German Shepherd
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency
Hip dysplasia
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Senior German Shepherd
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Splenic cancer
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Hip dysplasia
German Shepherd puppy
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Umbilical hernia
Hip dysplasia
Trauma
Young adult German Shepherd
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency
Hip dysplasia
Skin allergies
Mature adult German Shepherd
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency
Hip dysplasia
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Senior German Shepherd
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Splenic cancer
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Hip dysplasia
German Shepherd puppy
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Umbilical hernia
Hip dysplasia
Trauma
Young adult German Shepherd
Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions
Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency
Hip dysplasia
Skin allergies
Nationwide can help you save on your German Shepherd's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your German Shepherd’s health information in a free report
Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd Dog rescued from a bombed-out kennel in World War I, was the first canine celebrity of the modern media age. He was so popular that a late rule change was put in place to prevent him from winning the first Academy Award for Best Actor.
German Shepherd coat care and colors
Ask anyone with a German Shepherd Dog how much they shed and chances are you’ll be told that the breed’s nickname is “German Shedder.” These dogs do shed an astonishing amount, as brushing sometimes ends with a pile of fur larger than many smaller dogs. The only way to fight it is by brushing and combing to get loose fur before it ends up on furniture, rugs, clothes … well, everything, really. Combing down to the skin is essential to prevent matting. German Shepherds are stoic dogs, so they may be more tolerant of nail trims than many other dogs. Acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped or ground down is key to making future nail trims easier on everyone.
How often should I groom my German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are heavy shedders, but daily brushing and combing will help with the fluff control. Bathe as necessary to control dirt and odors. Don’t forget paws: Nail trims are best kept up weekly to avoid long dagger nails that are painful when cut back, and trimming fur between the pads helps prevent burrs from settling there.
How can I manage shedding in my German Shepherd?
The best way to manage your German Shepherd Dog’s shedding is to be proactive about it: Brush and comb your German Shepherd down to the skin a couple of times a week, and use a shedding rake to pull out any loose fur. In spring and fall, a warm bath can speed up the seasonal shed. Always remember to remove any mats before bathing. Many groomers use high-velocity pet dryers, but if you don't have one, you can towel-dry your pet (outside if it's warm) or use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting to further get rid of loose fur. If the job is too daunting, make an appointment with a groomer.
What type of brush or comb is best for German Shepherds?
You'll need three grooming tools for best results when grooming your German Shepherd Dog: A wide-toothed metal comb, a pin brush and a shedding rake.
German Shepherd exercise & training
German Shepherd fun facts
Top girl names for German Shepherds
of German Shepherds are female
of German Shepherds are male
Top boy names for German Shepherds
Nationwide loves German Shepherds of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like German Shepherds
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