16 Cute German Shepherd Dogs & Puppies (2024)

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  Training Comes Naturally to German Shepherds

  

  Experts say this breed is top-notch when it comes to learning and retainingtraining lessonsfor a number of special services, like bomb-sniffing and opening doors. They’re popular choices amongmilitary, police and other service personnel thanks to their high intelligence and loyalty.

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  They Are Family Dogs

  

  Their extreme loyalty doesn’t stop at the end of their workday. German Shepherds areexcellent guardiansand will do anything to protect the ones they love. They are gentle family pets and the perfect cuddle buddies.

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  See Also

  German Shepherd Breeder Haus Amberg Shepherds: About UsGerman Shepherd dogs for sale in IrelandHow Much Should I Feed My Puppy? A Complete Puppy Feeding Guide With Chart

  Make Exercise a Priority

  

  Running, hiking, fetch—German Shepherds love it all. These dogs are very active and need a lot ofexercise and stimulationto stay happy. If you’ve ever considered doing an agility course with a dog, choose a German Shepherd.

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  It’s Always Playtime!

  

  German Shepherds are so good at their job because they think of it a lot like how they think of play. And playtime is a German Shepherd’s favorite time.

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  They Have a Bushy Coat

  

  Medium-length and thick, the coat of a German Shepherd needs somegrooming. Usually, that just means a bath and a quick brush every once in a while. In the warmer months, that could mean more brushing once every few days. Their thick, double coat means a lot of shedding. Ask your groomer about their de-shedding service!

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  German Shepherds Are Medium to Large

  

  Though size varies between individuals, a standard German Shepherd weighs about 60 pounds. Whether you already own a German Shepherd pup or are looking into it, be prepared for a hefty lap dog!

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  Yes, They’re German

  

  The German Shepherd isfrom Germany(who would have thought?). They were originally bred for their striking good looks and intelligence, making for a great working dog on the police force and in the military. They were so cute that dog-lovers in other countries soon caught on and began breeding them themselves.

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  Don’t Mind Their Bark

  

  If a stranger approaches, German Shepherds will alert you. These dogs are very protective of their homes and family and make excellent guard dogs.

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  Working Isn’t Just Fun for Them, They Need It

  

  German Shepherds don’t take well to couch potato owners. They need stimulation, even if they are a family pet and not a trained deputy. This can be in the form of playful games, puzzle toys,tricks, and obedience training. Otherwise, German Shepherds may show off some unpleasant behavior, like chewing.

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  German Shepherds Were the Original Service Dog

  

  The first Seeing Eye Dog was namedBuddy, a 1920s-era German Shepherd dog. Buddy’s success in guiding his blind owner gave way to the service dog movement.

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  They Don’t Let Their Family Out of Their Sight

  

  They might be curled up at your feet or lying down a distance away, but German Shepherds are always watching over you. It’s in their nature to protect their families.

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  They’re All Ears

  

  Perhaps the most notable feature in German Shepherds is their adorable pointy ears. When they’re born, a German Shepherd’sears are usually relaxed and floppy. They perk up as they grow older, making them look extra tall and important.

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  Coloring Can Vary

  

  Some common German Shepherd colors are black, tan, or a mix of the two. Beautiful all black and all white German Shepherds are out there, too.

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  German Shepherds Aren’t Always Serious

  

  Though they have important work to do, these dogs can be goofballs. They’re always ready for a romp in the yard or a game of fetch.

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  Just Add Water

  

  Even though German Shepherds weren’t bred to swim, they are naturals in the water. This breed is inherently athletic and courageous—nothing can stop them, not even water. Before they’re pros, they might need a doggy life jacketto be safe.

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  They’re Full of Love

  

  When it comes down to it, German Shepherds are bursting at the seams with love. Though they are protective, that doesn’t mean they’re not friendly. It may take a few seconds for you to earn their trust (let them sniff you before petting), but prepare for a goofy lifelong pal once you do.