The German Shepherd is more than just a loyal companion — it’s a breed built for intelligence, strength, and unwavering devotion.
Whether they’re working alongside law enforcement, assisting as service dogs, or simply standing guard as a beloved family protector, their adaptability and drive make them truly exceptional.
If you're considering bringing a German Shepherd into your life or already have one by your side, this guide is your go-to guide. From nutrition and exercise to training and health, we’ll cover everything you need to ensure your pup thrives at every stage of life.
From choosing the right diet to keeping their minds sharp, our holistic approach covers all the ins and outs of what it takes to care for a German Shepherd.
Top breed takeaways
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Breed history
The German Shepherd was first developed in Germany in the late 19th century by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who aimed to create the ideal herding dog. By selectively breeding working sheepdogs, he established a breed that was highly intelligent, obedient, and physically capable. The German Shepherd quickly gained international recognition, particularly for its service in military and police work, and remains one of the most widely used working breeds today.
Key characteristics
German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong protective instincts. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and protection work. Their keen senses and problem-solving abilities make them ideal for roles such as search and rescue, assistance work, and law enforcement.
They require an experienced and committed owner who can provide structured training, socialisation, and regular mental and physical exercise to prevent behavioural issues.
Health considerations
German Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, skin and eye conditions. A gently cooked, high-protein diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can support their skin, joint, and overall health.
Appearance and size
German Shepherds are large, muscular dogs with an athletic build. They have a distinctive double coat, erect ears, and a bushy tail. Their coat can come in various colours, including black and tan, sable, and solid black.
German Shepherd personality and temperament
Confident, courageous, and deeply loyal, German Shepherds form strong bonds with their families and are known for their protective nature. As a highly intelligent breed, they thrive when given a purpose and enjoy structured training and tasks.
Their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs, but early and consistent socialisation is essential to ensure they remain well-mannered and approachable in various situations. They are naturally wary of strangers but are not aggressive by default — proper training helps them distinguish between genuine threats and everyday interactions.
German Shepherds are highly expressive dogs that communicate through body language, vocalisations, and attentive behaviour. They are known to be sensitive to their owners' emotions, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike.
They have a high energy level and require ample mental and physical stimulation. If they’re not given adequate stimulation, they may find other channels for their energy and frustration, like excessive barking, destructive behaviour, or herding family members and other pets.
Despite their strong and confident nature, German Shepherds thrive on companionship and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. Separation anxiety can develop if they are not accustomed to periods of independence from an early age.
With the right training, socialisation, and a loving home, a German Shepherd will be an incredibly loyal and affectionate companion, ready to protect, play, and work alongside their family.
Size guide
A full-grown German Shepherd weighs between 22-40 kg and can grow between 55-65 cm tall, depending on their gender and genetics. They tend to stop growing in height by 12-18 months of age when they reach adulthood.
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How long do German Shepherds live?
German Shepherds typically live between 9-13 years.
As dog parents, we want our pups to live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible – and there’s so much we can easily do to help them thrive, not just survive. Every dog deserves a long, vibrant life, and it begins with a thoughtful, holistic approach to their wellbeing.
A nourishing real food diet (like Lyka), regular exercise, mental stimulation, training, grooming, and proactive vet care all work together to help your pup feel their very best.
Read more: The real cost of chronic illness in dogs and how you can prevent it →
What does a German Shepherd eat?
This intelligent breed needs nutritious food to fuel their mind and body.
The best German Shepherd diet is made with real food ingredients, like high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
Lyka’s human-grade meals are gently cooked to retain the tastes, textures, and nutrients of each carefully selected ingredient. They’re easy to digest, help keep your pup hydrated, and delicious – perfect for even the fussiest eaters.
Maintaining the right weight and body shape is crucial for a German Shepherd’s health and wellbeing. Excess weight or obesity can lead to other diseases and affect a dog’s joints, mobility, quality of life, and lifespan.
That’s why Lyka meals are custom portioned to meet your dog’s specific needs, helping you keep them at their healthiest and happiest.
Read more: The life-changing benefits of real food for dogs →
Do German Shepherd puppies need special food?
Contrary to popular belief, puppies don’t need special puppy food if they’re getting the right portion of nutrient-dense real food.
German Shepherd puppies need a diet containing high-quality protein for tissue growth, essential vitamins and minerals for bone development and brain function, and low GI carbohydrates for slow-release energy, like Lyka.
Read more: What should puppies eat? Expert nutrition tips for optimal development →
Read more: Puppy vs adult food: what our experts want you to know →
German Shepherd health issues
German Shepherds from reputable breeders are generally known to be healthy, but like all dogs, they can develop health issues or inherit conditions from their parents.
Before planning a litter, respectable breeders will consider the health, temperament, and genetic history of their breeding pairs to select good characteristics. Always check the health of the parents before choosing your new pup.
1. Musculoskeletal issues
German Shepherds can be genetically predisposed to developmental conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia. Rapid growth as a puppy (caused by too much dietary calcium or protein) can also be a factor. Some dogs can develop arthritis as a secondary condition.
Look for real, fresh food that supports joint health and contains bioavailable ingredients known for their musculoskeletal-boosting properties, like:
🐟 Sardines: a powerful source of Omega 3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties to support strong and supple joints.
🌾 Quinoa: contains manganese for bone development.
🌱 Fennel Seeds: rich in antioxidant properties to reduce the damage to joints caused by oxidative stress.
Lyka meals contain sardines, fish oil and flaxseed oil that support common joint ailments like arthritis and osteochondritis.
Read more: Hip dysplasia: how can your dog's diet help? →
2. Skin issues
Skin conditions are the most common reason to visit the vet. From skin allergies to atopic dermatitis, German Shepherds are no strangers to these problems.
Soothe your German Shepherd's skin inflammation, itchiness and scratching with a complete and balanced diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
A real food diet can help to reduce sensitivities by promoting a healthy immune response to allergens and strengthening the skin's defence against irritants.
Look for real ingredients full of skin-soothing properties, like:
🌱 Hemp seeds: contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 to calm skin irritations.
💛 Safflower oil: full of Vitamin E for nourished and moisturised skin.
🐟 Fish oil: has potent omega-3 to reduce inflamed and dry skin.
Read more: 9 common dog skin conditions: how to spot & treat them →
Read more: Dog skin allergies: triggers, symptoms and itch relief treatment →
3. Eye conditions
German Shepherds can be susceptible to eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy: a degenerative disease that impacts the photoreceptor cells in their eyes, eventually leading to blindness.
Although eye problems are often hereditary, you can support your dog’s eye health through nutrition. Meals containing ingredients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help, though more research needs to be done to confirm the benefits.
Look for these ingredients in Lyka meals:
🧡 Turmeric: contains curcumin, an active ingredient with antioxidant properties to help fight cellular damage.
🥕 Carrots: packed with beta-carotene that can promote eye health.
German Shepherd coat, grooming, and hygiene tips
Keeping your German Shepherd well-groomed is about more than just a sleek and shiny coat – it’s essential for their overall health.
A consistent grooming routine helps maintain healthy skin, trim nails, and clean teeth. By investing a little time in their hygiene, you ensure your dog stays healthy and happy.
Coat types and shedding
German Shepherds have a dense double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding periods in spring and autumn. Regular brushing helps reduce loose hair and keeps their coat healthy.
Grooming
Brushing 2-3 times a week is recommended, but daily brushing during shedding seasons can help manage loose fur. They don't need to be clipped as this can affect their double coat.
They only need a bath every 6-8 weeks unless they’ve rolled in something dirty or smelly. Remember to use a mild, dog-friendly shampoo, as human products can irritate their skin.
German Shepherd hygiene tips
A dog's nails can grow surprisingly fast and if they're not trimmed regularly can become uncomfortable and even affect how they walk.
Introduce your German Shepherd to nail trims from an early age so they’re used to the sensation and the tools. Don’t forget to reward them with a high-value treat at the end, so they develop a positive association with the process.
Brushing your dog's teeth a few times a week helps reduce tartar buildup and supports healthy gums.
Routine ear checks are important to spot signs of an ear infection, wax buildup, or irritation. You can give them a gentle wipe with a clean, damp cloth, but be careful not to reach too far into their ear, as this can cause damage.
And don’t forget to inspect your dog’s paws frequently, checking for cuts, debris, or redness between their pads.
German Shepherd exercise requirements
German Shepherds are high-energy dogs that require at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily. They thrive on a variety of activities that engage both their bodies and minds. Long walks, running, and hiking are excellent ways to keep them physically fit, while agility training, obedience trials, and herding exercises stimulate their natural instincts.
They excel in structured exercise like Schutzhund training, which enhances their physical ability and mental sharpness. Swimming is also a great low-impact activity for German Shepherds, helping to maintain strong muscles and healthy joints.
Interactive play, such as fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek, can provide additional mental and physical stimulation. Without proper exercise, German Shepherds may develop behavioural issues such as excessive barking, digging, or chewing. Ensuring they have an active lifestyle helps them remain balanced, happy, and well-behaved.
A high-protein, low-glycaemic index diet, like Lyka’s real food meals, provides steady, nutritious energy to complement their active lifestyle.
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Training a German Shepherd
German Shepherds are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them one of the most trainable breeds. They excel in obedience, agility, and working roles and respond best to positive reinforcement techniques. Consistent training from puppyhood is essential to shape them into well-mannered adults.
Early socialisation is crucial to ensure they are comfortable around new people, animals, and environments. Puppy school and controlled exposure to different sights, sounds, and situations help develop their confidence and social skills.
Basic obedience training, such as sit, stay, and recall, should begin early, followed by advanced commands and tasks. German Shepherds also thrive on job-like tasks, such as scent detection, herding, or protection training. Mental enrichment through puzzle toys, food-dispensing games, and structured learning sessions prevents boredom and destructive behaviour.
For puppies, toilet training requires frequent breaks (expect one hour of bladder control per month of age), while crate training offers a safe space and helps with house-training. Controlled socialisation through puppy school or meet-ups is essential for building confidence and social skills.
Your pup’s receptivity to training can be improved with the right nutrition that helps support consistent moods, steady energy levels, and cognitive development.
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training →
How to choose a reputable German Shepherd breeder
So, you’ve decided that a German Shepherd is the perfect pup for you. How exciting! The next step is to find a reputable breeder.
What do we mean by ‘reputable breeder’?
Reputable, ethical breeders establish breeding programs, planning a limited number of litters using breeding pairs carefully selected for their health and temperament. They believe the health and wellbeing of their dogs and puppies are paramount.
Ethical breeders often have an application and selection process and may even have a waitlist. They should be receptive to scheduled visits so you can see their facilities, meet their dogs, and ask them questions about their program.
This is when you should enquire about how they have addressed common health conditions, like hip dysplasia scoring.
A puppy farm (factory, or mill) often operates in poor conditions and on a large scale to maximise their profit. Health and wellbeing are of secondary importance, if at all, leading to puppies that often have long-term health and behavioural issues.
How do I find a reputable German Shepherd breeder?
Often each state has a recognised breed club that can provide a list of reputable breeders that will usually have a website, social media channels, and direct contact details.
RightPaw is a website dedicated to promoting responsible breeders and ethical programs. Not all breeders use this site, but it’s a helpful tool to support you on your puppy journey.
Speak to other dog parents – it’s a great way to gain invaluable insight into their first-hand experience and give you even more of a taste of what to expect from the breed.
How much is a German Shepherd puppy?
You can expect to pay around $3,000 to $7,000 for a puppy from an ethical breeder in Australia. But remember that the ongoing cost of parenting a dog is a significant commitment of money and time.
Veterinary bills can be expensive and unexpected, so it’s worth considering pet insurance too.
If you want to adopt a dog from a shelter, we’re right behind you. Try to find out as much information about them as you can but recognise that a lot of their history will be unknown.
When you bring them home, show them love, patience, and consistency to help them settle into a new and secure life with you.
Read more: How much does a dog cost? The real price of dog ownership →
FAQ
Still got some unanswered questions about German Shepherds? Check out our FAQs below:
Are German Shepherds hypoallergenic?
No, German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds and can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
When should I desex my German Shepherd?
Most dogs are desexed when they reach maturity. Your vet will consider your dog’s age, size, health, and behaviour to determine the right time for the procedure.
For how long is a German Shepherd pregnant?
The German Shepherd gestation period is around 63 days or nine weeks from conception.
Are German Shepherds good family dogs?
Absolutely! German Shepherds are loyal, protective, and intelligent, making them great companions for families. They bond closely with their humans and can be gentle with children when properly trained and socialised. However, their protective instincts mean they need consistent training to ensure they interact well with visitors and other pets.
Are German Shepherds good with other pets?
With proper training and socialisation, German Shepherds can get along well with other pets. However, their natural herding and guarding instincts may lead them to try to assert dominance. Early introductions and controlled socialisation are key to a harmonious multi-pet household.
Are German Shepherds good for first-time dog owners?
They can be, but they require a committed owner willing to invest time in training, exercise, and socialisation. Their intelligence and loyalty make them incredibly rewarding companions, but their energy levels and strong instincts mean they need structure and consistency from day one.
New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together
Parenting your German Shepherd comes with many decisions, like choosing the best diet for your new best friend.
Designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists and made with real, human-grade ingredients, our meals are custom-portioned to match your dog’s needs.
Lyka nourishes hundreds of German Shepherds across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.
Join our pack of proud German Shepherd parents today.
