German Shepherd

Like every breed, the German Shepherd is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Use kind, reward-based methods and plenty of patience.
• Set clear boundaries, and make sure everyone in the family follows the same rules.
• Socialise early and widely with people, other animals, livestock and children.
• Add training and puzzle games to walks to keep their minds busy.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Cats and small pets

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually needs a roomy home.

• Garden

  A secure garden is strongly advised.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Best with an experienced owner.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Hip dysplasia

  The hip joint does not fit together perfectly, which eventually leads to arthritis. The Royal Kennel Club strongly recommends hip testing under the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme before breeding.

• Elbow dysplasia

  The elbow joint does not form properly, causing pain and problems. Elbow testing under the BVA/KC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme is strongly recommended.

• Degenerative myelopathy (DM)

  A progressive weakness of the back legs that leads to paralysis. A DNA test is available and recommended as best practice.

• Inherited eye diseases

  These include cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. Eye testing under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme is recommended.

• Anal furunculosis

  A painful disease that causes ulceration around the bottom.

• Epilepsy

  A brain disorder that causes seizures.

• Pituitary dwarfism

  A hormone deficiency that causes severe growth problems and shortens lifespan.

• Haemophilia A and B

  Bleeding disorders that stop blood clotting properly. Screening tests are available.

• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

  The body cannot produce enough of the enzymes needed to digest food properly.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a German Shepherd home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a German Shepherd home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the German Shepherd suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

German Shepherds do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.