The German Shepherd has a long and rich history. With their distinct coloring, striking pose, tall ears and intelligent face, the German Shepherd is one of the world’s most recognized breeds. Puppies are usually black with tan socks and with tan markings on their faces. A puppy German Shepherd has markings similar to Rottweiler and Doberman Pincers. As adults, brown typically mixes in with the black to lighten the color of their coats and the socks and face typically lighten as well. However, some German Shepherds are pure black and others are black with white. Colors and patterns may vary.

The most notable qualities of temperament and disposition are loyalty and protectiveness. Most German Shepherds fit well into a family’s lifestyle; they are good with children and enjoy family outings and affairs. The breed is often praised for keen intelligence and mild manners around familiar people. Concerns regarding temperament include aggressiveness toward strangers — even friends of the family — which can be a problem because of the large stature the German Shepherd.

However, this aggressiveness also means that German Shepherds are great guard dogs, a trait that has been promoted by breeders over the centuries. It’s the combination of extreme loyalty and fearless nature that makes them the most popular breed of K-9 units.

Adults can weigh anywhere between 65 and 120 pounds. German Shepherds are high energy dogs and require a great deal of exercise even as puppies. German Shepherds aren’t particularly friendly with other dogs. While at times they can be even tempered around other dogs, they can also be extremely aggressive, particularly when they feel the children of their family may be in danger.

There are countless great qualities associated with German Shepherds, but they also have a tradition of health problems. Unfortunately, inbreeding for the sake of perpetuating certain traits has led to the majority of these problems. Hip and elbow dysplasia, (degradation of the cartilage in the joints) cancer, bloat and gastric disorders, heart disorders and panosteitis are some of the commonly occurring health problems. As a result, it is important to select a breeder that provides heath screenings and certificates for you to review prior to your purchase.

If you can find a breeder that guarantees their pups’ health, the German Shepherd adapts well to most any type of lifestyle. From suburban life to life on a ranch, German Shepherds quickly find their niche’ and excel.