The German Shepherd is #3 in the ranking of the most Popular Breed registered with the AKC.  When you think about this breed you are more than likely going to think of Police dogs.  There is a good reason for that.  The German Shepherd is the world’s leading breed used with the police and military because of its dependable and hard working nature.  The German Shepherd is very intelligent and that makes training very easy, and strongly recommended if you are planning on having one as a companion.  They will need plenty of daily exercise.  If the German Shepherd is under-exercised and/or not mentally challenged, it can become restless and destructive!  This breed will do best in an active family providing a job for it.

Grooming is another concern for most people.  With their thick coat they will shed quite a bit.  Brushing is a must with this breed.  Some people prefer to get their German Shepherds shaved during the warmer months, but not a necessity.  With the longer coated German Shepherds you will have to make sure there are no tangles that turn into mats with can cause infections and possibly behavior problems.  Other grooming is the same as with any dog, keep the ears clean and free of debris, dental hygiene, & regular nail trimming.

Brief History

The German Shepherd originated in Karksruhe, Germany by Captain Max von Stephanitz and a few other breeders.  They used long, wire and short-haired local herding and farm dogs to create the German Shepherd we know today.  In 1907, the first German Shepherd was exhibited in America.  The movies Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart are what sent this breed to be one of most common breeds today!