Large breed
German Shepherd Puppies
Loyal protector, gentle family companion, and friend
We do not have German Shepherd puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 50–90 lbs
- Height 22–26 in
- Lifespan 9–13 years
- Exercise 120 min a day
About the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a majestic breed known for its intelligence and loyalty, with origins tracing back to Germany in the late 19th century. Originally bred for herding and protecting sheep, these dogs have since become beloved companions and trusted working partners in various roles, from police work to search and rescue. Their strong bond with their families makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a devoted friend who thrives on interaction and affection.
Read more about the German Shepherd Show less
With a loving disposition that suits families well, German Shepherds are particularly good with young children, displaying patience and protectiveness. However, they may not get along as easily with other dogs and can show some independence around cats. They are a bit more suited for homes with experience, as their barking tendency can be strong at times and their protective instincts might require careful management. These intelligent dogs respond exceptionally well to training, making them one of the most versatile breeds. With consistent reinforcement and socialization, they can excel in obedience and even advanced tasks.
Although German Shepherds have notable energy levels, they can be satisfied with regular daily exercise, such as walks or play sessions, and thrive best in environments that are spacious enough for them to roam and explore safely. They are moderately suitable for apartment living, but having access to outdoor space is quite beneficial. Grooming is fairly straightforward, needing weekly brushing to keep their coat healthy and to manage the moderate shedding typical of the breed.
If you’re considering adding a German Shepherd to your family, you can look forward to a loyal friend who will enrich your life with their loving temperament and unwavering companionship. Be sure to visit us at Petland Pembroke Pines to learn more about these remarkable dogs and find the perfect match for your family.
See available German Shepherd puppies at Petland Pembroke Pines
German Shepherd breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Cautious
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Territorial Very territorial
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Prey drive High
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Prefers to be the only dog
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Cats Needs care
Energy & exercise
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Energy High
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Mental stimulation Needs a job to do
Training
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Trainability Eager to please
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Intelligence Exceptional
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Stubbornness Stubborn
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Light
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Drooling Minimal
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Prefers a house
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Comfortable
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Warm weather Average
A good match for
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First-time owners Some experience helps
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Senior owners Good
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Running partner Excellent
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Hiking Excellent
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Strong guardian
Living with a German Shepherd
Temperament & Family Fit
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them excellent family companions. They are generally good with young kids and can happily engage in playful activities. However, they may require a bit more supervision around other pets, especially other dogs, due to their strong protective instincts.
Energy & Exercise
This breed is quite energetic and thrives on daily exercise. With an energetic level of 4, they enjoy activities like running and playing fetch, which helps keep them fit and mentally stimulated. Regular outdoor adventures are a must to keep your German Shepherd happy and healthy!
Care & Grooming
German Shepherds have a moderate shedding level, so you can expect to give them some grooming love on a weekly basis. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat looking sharp. With their affectionate nature, they often enjoy bonding time during grooming sessions.
Training Notes
One of the standout features of German Shepherds is their remarkable trainability, scoring a top-notch 5. They thrive on mental challenges and respond well to consistent training methods. With your gentle guidance, they will quickly learn commands and become wonderful, obedient companions.
Caring for a German Shepherd
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent family companions. They are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners, often displaying a playful and energetic demeanor. Their intelligence also means they can be adaptable, responding well to training and socialization.
How much exercise do German Shepherds need?
German Shepherds are active dogs with a moderate to high energy level. They thrive on regular exercise, which can include daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Keeping their bodies and minds engaged is key to ensuring they remain happy and healthy.
Are German Shepherds good with children and other pets?
Generally, German Shepherds can be good with young kids, showing protective instincts while being playful. They may not always get along with other dogs, so early socialization is important. However, they often do well with cats, especially if raised together from a young age.
How much grooming do German Shepherds require?
German Shepherds have a moderate shedding level, so a weekly grooming session is usually sufficient to manage loose hair and keep their coat healthy. Regular brushing can also help reduce shedding and keep their skin in good condition. You'll likely find that they enjoy the grooming process as a bonding time.
Are German Shepherds suitable for apartment living?
While German Shepherds are large dogs and have some needs that may be challenging in an apartment setting, it's possible for them to live in one if they receive enough physical activity and mental stimulation. They do best in environments where they can have space to move and a routine that includes time outside for exercise.
