Highly Intelligent and Trainable

German Shepherds are among the most intelligent breeds, making them highly trainable and capable of learning complex tasks. 

Loyal and Protective

They are fiercely loyal to their families and make excellent guard dogs due to their protective instincts. 

Versatile Working Dogs

German Shepherds excel in various roles, including police, military, service, and search-and-rescue work. 

Energetic and Playful

They are active dogs that enjoy physical activities like running, hiking, and playing, making them great companions for active families. 

High Exercise Requirements

German Shepherds are energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. 

Prone to Health Issues: The breed is prone to health problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as digestive and skin issues, which can result in high veterinary costs. 

Requires Experienced Handling

Due to their size, strength, and protective instincts, German Shepherds are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training and leadership. 

Shedding and Grooming Needs

They are heavy shedders, particularly during shedding season, and require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. 

Exercise Needs

German Shepherds are high-energy dogs that require daily physical and mental exercise. They enjoy activities like running, hiking, playing fetch, and participating in dog sports like agility and obedience training. 

Walks

A minimum of two long walks per day, combined with playtime or other physical activities, is recommended to meet their exercise needs. 

Training

German Shepherds are highly trainable but require consistent, positive reinforcement training. Early obedience training is important to establish good behaviour and manage their protective instincts. They excel in tasks that challenge their intelligence, such as agility, tracking, and service work. 

Purchase Price

$2,500 - $5,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage. 

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $700 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $1,000 - $1,500 AUD per year, given their large size and dietary needs. 

Grooming

Regular grooming costs, including professional grooming sessions, can range from $300 - $500 AUD per year. Daily brushing at home is recommended to manage shedding. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups, preventive care, and potential treatments for hip dysplasia or other health issues could cost $500 - $1,000 AUD per year. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 9-13 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $40,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors. 

Size and Weight

German Shepherds are large dogs, typically standing 55-65 cm (22-26 inches) tall and weighing between 22-40 kg (50-88 lbs), with males being larger than females. 

Coat

They have a double coat, with a dense undercoat and a straight, coarse outer coat. German Shepherds shed year-round and heavily during seasonal changes, requiring regular brushing to manage shedding. 

Colour Options

The most common colour for German Shepherds is black and tan, but they can also be found in solid black, sable, or black and red. 

Temperament

German Shepherds are confident, courageous, and loyal. They are highly protective of their families and can be wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. With proper socialisation, they are also friendly and gentle with children and other pets. 

Good with Children

German Shepherds are generally good with children, especially when raised with them. They are protective and patient but should be supervised around younger children due to their size and energy levels. 

Socialisation

Early socialisation is essential to ensure that German Shepherds are comfortable around strangers and other animals. Proper socialisation helps prevent excessive wariness or aggression towards unfamiliar people and dogs. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

German Shepherds are adaptable and can live both indoors and outdoors, but they prefer to be with their families and should not be left outside for extended periods. They need space to move around and benefit from access to a yard or outdoor space. 

Apartment Living

While they can adapt to apartment living, German Shepherds are better suited to homes with yards due to their size and high energy levels. If living in an apartment, they require plenty of outdoor exercise to prevent boredom. 

Time Alone

German Shepherds do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are social dogs that enjoy being around their families and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviours if isolated for too long. 

Common Health Issues

German Shepherds are prone to several health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, bloat (gastric torsion), and allergies. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for managing these risks. 

Guarding Ability

German Shepherds are natural protectors and make excellent guard dogs. They are highly alert and will often bark to alert their owners of intruders or unusual activity. 

Affectionate Nature

Despite their serious and protective appearance, German Shepherds are affectionate with their families. They enjoy being close to their owners and are known for their loyalty and devotion. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

German Shepherds can get along well with other dogs if properly socialised, but supervision is recommended due to their strong protective instincts and potential dominance around unfamiliar dogs. 

Climate Adaptability

German Shepherds can adapt to various climates but may struggle in extreme heat due to their thick double coat. In hot weather, they need plenty of water, shade, and the option to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. 

 Ethical Breeding Considerations

It’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who performs health screenings to minimise the risk of hereditary health issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Ethical breeding practices help ensure the health and well-being of the puppies.