Character & standard

The German Shepherd

Its character, its build and its way of life

La race

The herding dog par excellence

Developed in Germany in the late 19th century as a herding dog, the German Shepherd has become one of the most versatile and respected breeds in the world: a working, protection and service dog, and above all a loyal family companion. Before welcoming one home, here is, in full transparency, what you should know about its character, its build and its training.

The breed standard

Height (male): 60 to 65 cm at the withers
Height (female): 55 to 60 cm at the withers
Weight: 30 to 40 kg (male), 22 to 32 kg (female)
Coat: Dense double coat, most often black and tan
Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, courageous and versatile
Life expectancy: 9 to 13 years

Its character, its way of life

An athlete or a couch dog?

Decidedly an athlete. It needs to move and burn energy every day, and it thrives when it shares in the family's activities.

Affectionate or aloof?

Deeply bonded to its people. Reserved with strangers, it is tender and faithful with its family, which it sees as its pack.

A good guard dog?

Excellent: watchful and protective by nature, it warns and deters. Well socialized, it is never aggressive without reason — it assesses before reacting.

Does it need a lot of exercise?

Yes — both body AND mind. A simple walk isn't enough: it needs a job — games, obedience, tracking, dog sports. A stimulated German Shepherd is a balanced dog.

Is apartment living possible?

With difficulty, and only with plenty of daily exercise and stimulation. During growth, the puppy shouldn't overdo the stairs. Think it through: a large, active dog needs space to be happy.

Does it tolerate being alone?

Poorly. Very attached, it gets bored and may develop unwanted behaviours if left alone too long. Teach it early to stay alone a little, without excess.

Is it easy to train?

It is among the most intelligent breeds in the world: it learns fast and wants to please. That intelligence does require a clear framework and consistency, otherwise it trains itself... its own way.

Its greatest qualities and flaws?

Its loyalty, intelligence and versatility. In return: a high need for activity, heavy shedding, and the flip side of its attachment — it needs to be fully part of family life.

Its build, its health

Physical traits

A medium-to-large dog, powerful and harmonious, with a slightly elongated silhouette and a keen, intelligent gaze. Its double coat protects it from the elements and needs regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons.

Growth and health

During its first year, avoid overexertion: no repeated jumps or excessive stairs, to protect its growing joints. Make sure the parents have been screened for hip and elbow dysplasia — an essential point in this breed.

Diet & activity

A quality diet, suited to its age and activity level, with no excess weight during growth. This is an active dog: daily physical exercise and mental stimulation go hand in hand to keep it healthy and balanced.

Its training

Quiet firmness and consistency. The German Shepherd is brilliant and sensitive: it needs to understand its place and its limits from a young age, with respect. Socialize it early, give it a clear framework and challenges to take on — it will repay you a hundredfold in loyalty. A dog that knows what is expected of it is a happy dog, and a fulfilled human.

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