German Shepherds are brilliant, loyal and intensely driven working dogs — which means a happy Shepherd is one with a job to do, early training, and an owner who stays ahead of the breed's very specific health risks.
Bred to work all day, the German Shepherd needs far more than a walk around the block. Give them exercise, mental challenge and consistent training and you have one of the most capable, devoted dogs in the world; leave them bored and under-exercised and that same intelligence turns into anxiety, barking and destruction.
This guide covers what to expect from a German Shepherd's temperament and energy, how to groom, train and exercise them, the health conditions the breed is genuinely prone to (and how to get ahead of them), and where their nutrition needs a closer eye — with our vets' recommendations along the way.
Key Takeaways
- German Shepherds need around two hours of real activity — exercise plus mental work like training, scent games or agility. A bored Shepherd is a destructive one.
- Start training and socialisation the moment vaccinations allow, ideally before 16 weeks. This breed's confidence and steadiness are built young, and it's the best insurance against fear or reactivity.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (GDV), degenerative myelopathy and a sensitive gut (including EPI) all run in German Shepherds — buy from a breeder who health-tests, feed for a lean weight, and split meals to lower bloat risk.
- Digestive upset is one of the most common reasons Shepherds see the vet. Consistent, high-quality food and slow, split meals matter more here than in most breeds.
- Their double coat sheds year-round and "blows" heavily in spring and autumn — brush several times a week, daily during a coat blow.
Life with a German Shepherd: Rachel & Archie
German Shepherds bond deeply and bring their energy to everything — and it doesn't fade as fast as people expect. Rachel's Archie is a case in point.
"He's always happy to join us in whatever we're doing, whether it be a snuggle in bed, running at the farm, going for a drive or lounging with his feline siblings. We were told he would settle down from his bounding and excitable puppy stage but he's the same crazy boy six years later."
— Rachel S. & Archie the German Shepherd, proud Vets Love Pets customers
Background & appearance
The German Shepherd was developed in Germany in the late 1800s as the ultimate herding and working dog — prized for intelligence, trainability and drive. That working heritage is why the breed went on to excel in police, military, assistance and search-and-rescue roles the world over, and it still shapes the dog you live with today: a Shepherd wants a purpose.
German Shepherds are large, athletic dogs with a strong, well-proportioned build, standing over 55 cm at the shoulder. They carry a medium-length double coat — most commonly the classic black-and-tan, though solid black, sable and grey also occur — with a distinctive noble head and upright, alert ears.
Browse our German Shepherd essentials
Royal Canin German Shepherd Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Suitable for German Shepherds aged 15 months old and over, Royal Canin® German Shepherd Adult is specially formulated with all the nutritional needs of your adult dog in mind. Royal Canin® German Shepherd Adult contributes to supporting optimal digestive health. This is thanks to the inclusion of highly digestible L.I.P. proteins and a selection of specific fibres that limit intestinal fermentation and simultaneously help to maintain a good balance of intestinal flora.
Royal Canin® German Shepherd Adult helps to support the skin's barrier role with a specific complex. It also contains the omega-3 fatty acids EPA & DHA. These nutrients help to nourish and support your dog's healthy skin and coat. The German Shepherd is known for its lively temperament and high level of activity. This means a diet containing nutrients that support joint health can help maintain this breed's high activity levels and joint health. This is the reason that Royal Canin® German Shepherd Adult is enriched with specific nutrients to help support healthy bones and joints. What's more, this formula also contributes to the maintenance of a healthy weight.
Digestive Performance
Contributes to supporting digestive health while taking into account the German Shepherd’s digestive sensitivity, thanks to highly digestible L.I.P.* proteins and a selection of specific fibres to limit intestinal fermentation while supporting a balance in the intestinal flora.
*Protein selected for its very high digestibility.
Healthy Skin and Coat
This formula helps support the skin’s barrier role (exclusive complex) and maintain skin and coat health (EPA and DHA).
Bone and Joint Health
This specific formula helps support healthy bones and joints and maintain ideal weight. Enriched with EPA and DHA.
Tailor Made Kibble
Exclusive Kibble Design
The kibble’s shape, size, texture and formula are adapted to the German Shepherd dog.
NexGard Spectra for Large Dogs (15.1 - 30 kg)
NexGard Spectra for Large Dogs is a monthly chewable that protects dogs 15.1 to 30 kg against fleas, paralysis ticks, mites, lice, heartworm, and intestinal worms in a single beef-flavoured chew. The chew combines afoxolaner (an oral isoxazoline ectoparasiticide) with milbemycin oxime to deliver broad-spectrum protection without separate heartworm tablets, worming pastes, or topical applications.
Health Benefits
- Broad-spectrum parasite protection: covers fleas, paralysis ticks, brown dog ticks, bush ticks, sarcoptic and demodectic mange mites, chewing lice, heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm in one monthly chew
- Single-dose convenience: replaces the need for separate flea, tick, heartworm, and intestinal worm products with one monthly beef-flavoured chew
- Starts working quickly: afoxolaner begins killing fleas within 8 hours and paralysis ticks within 48 hours of administration
- Suits 15.1 to 30 kg dogs: the purple pack is dosed for medium-to-large breeds including most Labradors, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and similar-sized dogs
- Tasty chew format: designed for high palatability so most dogs take the chew straight from the hand without hiding in food
- Vet-approved for puppies from 8 weeks: suitable for puppies of eligible weight from 8 weeks of age and 2 kg minimum body weight
NexGard Spectra for Large Dogs is a monthly flea, tick, and worming treatment that delivers full-spectrum parasite protection for dogs 15.1 to 30 kg in a single beef-flavoured chew.
Sporn Mesh Non-Pull Harness
The Sporn Non-Pull Mesh Dog Harness fits like a glove and is designed to curb moderate to heavy leash pullers. Made for style, comfort and control, this harness features an elasticized mesh chest piece that moves with your dog. It’s designed to humanely control any size dog without choking, and the one-piece harness is easy to put on and take off. The padded restraint sleeves offer extra comfort under the front legs.
Key Benefits
- Patented system gives with your dog's natural movements
- Designed to stop the hardest pullers humanely without choking
- Padded restraint sleeves allow for a comfy fit under front legs
- One-piece ergonomic structure
- Made with the highest quality nylon
Sizing Information
Toy: 20.3cm - 25.4cm neck, or dogs approximately 2-8 lbs
Small: 22.8cm - 30.5cm neck, or dogs approximately 8-25 lbs
Medium: 30.5cm - 43.2cm neck, or dogs approximately 25-60 lbs
Large/X-Large: 40.6cm -60.9cm neck, or dogs approximately 60-100 lbs
Precautions: Recommended for walking purposes only. Do not leave on dog unattended. Not designed for use as a car harness or tie-out.
Temperament & personality
German Shepherds are confident, loyal and deeply bonded to their family — the kind of dog that follows you room to room and keeps a watchful eye on the front door. With people and animals they've been raised alongside they're affectionate and gentle; with strangers they're naturally more reserved, which is part of what makes them such a capable guardian.
You shape a great deal of that temperament yourself. A well-socialised, well-exercised Shepherd is steady and even-tempered. A Shepherd that's under-stimulated, under-socialised or left alone too much can become anxious, reactive or destructive — so the temperament you end up with is, to a large degree, the one you build.
Exercise & enrichment
German Shepherds are extremely active and need at least two hours of vigorous exercise a day, split across the day rather than crammed into one session. Mix on- and off-lead walks, running and fetch, and give them a real job wherever you can.
Physical exercise alone won't satisfy this breed — the mind needs work too. Puzzle toys, durable enrichment toys, scent work and training sessions keep a Shepherd's sharp mind occupied. Agility or obedience classes are ideal, doubling as exercise, mental challenge and socialisation. Build it into a consistent daily routine — this is not a breed that copes well with boredom.
Grooming & coat care
That thick double coat needs regular work. Brush several times a week with a good pet brush to lift dead hair and keep the coat comfortable — and be ready for the seasonal blows.
Shedding. German Shepherds shed year-round (the nickname "German shedders" is well earned) and shed heavily in spring and autumn as the coat changes over. During a blow, brush daily, and use an undercoat rake or shedding blade to stay on top of it.
Bathing. Don't overdo it — the coat's natural oils protect skin and fur, so bathe only every few months or when they're genuinely dirty, using a gentle dog shampoo. A good play session or walk beforehand helps, as most Shepherds aren't fans of bath time.
Nails. Check nails regularly and trim them if they aren't wearing down naturally — overgrown nails are painful and affect the way a dog stands and moves.
Training & socialisation
German Shepherds are one of the most trainable breeds there is — highly intelligent, eager to please, and happiest when they're learning. Start as soon as their vaccinations allow, and lean on positive reinforcement: reward the behaviour you want with treats, play or praise, and this breed will pick things up fast.
Socialisation is the priority. The window from roughly 12 to 16 weeks is critical: calm, positive exposure to new people, dogs, places and sounds in this period builds the confident, well-adjusted adult you want and heads off the fear-based reactivity the breed can otherwise develop. Puppy school is one of the easiest ways to combine early socialisation with basic obedience in a safe, supervised setting.
From there, build reliable basics — sit, stay, recall — early and keep sessions short, consistent and upbeat. A Shepherd that understands its job and trusts its handler is a joy to live with.
Common behaviour issues
Almost all German Shepherd behaviour problems trace back to the same root: not enough exercise or mental stimulation. Meet those needs first, and most issues shrink.
- Chewing. Normal in teething puppies, and a boredom or anxiety outlet in adults. Redirect to chew toys and enrichment; if it's severe and looks anxiety-driven, talk to your vet.
- Excessive barking. Shepherds are vocal but usually bark for a reason — alerting, boredom or anxiety. Identify the trigger, teach a "quiet" cue, and never punish or shout, which erodes trust. For anxiety-driven barking, calming aids and pheromone products plus veterinary advice help.
- Reactivity or aggression. Uncommon in a well-socialised Shepherd, and usually linked to fear, under-socialisation, or being left alone too long. Prevention — early socialisation and enough daily exercise — is far easier than a cure; involve a vet or qualified behaviourist early if it appears.
- Jumping up. Cute in a puppy, dangerous in a 35 kg adult. Reward a "four paws on the floor" sit for greetings instead.
Browse our training products
Savourlife Australian Chicken Training Treats
SavourLife’s Australian Training Treat Range are delicious, bite-size, meaty chunks; perfect for training and rewarding (and great as toy stuffers too!). Based on our popular Strips Range recipes we make them right here in Australia, from ingredients including real Australian meat, and they contain no artificial colour or flavours. Great to have on hand when you are walking, playing or having fun! We have done the hard work for you!
These tasty morsels are perfectly sized in little cubes to easily train and reward. No more cutting up meat or trying to break treats with your hands! Our Training Treats are high-value; that’s training speak for ‘your dog will do anything for the taste!’ Not only do dogs love them, they are healthy too! They are enriched with vitamins and minerals, plus we have added fish oil, packed with Omega 3&6, for a shiny and healthy coat. As an added bonus they are low in fat and salt.
Coachi Multi-Clicker
Clicker training is easy, fun and effective! This popular training method uses positive reinforcement to pinpoint and reward specific good behaviour.
Volume Control
The Coachi Multi-Clicker has a patented volume control with 3 settings, allowing you to adjust for nervous and sound sensitive dogs and to cater for those more boisterous canines!
Easy to Hold
It has a raised thumb-piece for easy use and an adjustable wrist strap for the perfect fit, so great for children and adults, its even reflective too!
Clicker Training
The Coachi Whizzclick clicker, has a very clear sound, it's easy and comfortable to press and use. The whistle produces a single tone that travels well in open spaces.
Fun to Train
Great for teaching fun tricks as well as basic commands, like sit, down and stay.
Common German Shepherd Health Issues
German Shepherds are a wonderful breed, but they carry more than their share of serious inherited conditions — which is exactly why choosing a breeder who health-tests, and staying on top of preventive care, matters so much.
1. Hip and elbow dysplasia. The breed is strongly associated with hip and elbow dysplasia, where the joints form abnormally and wear early. You can't change the genetics, but controlled puppy growth, a lean adult weight, marine omega-3s and a daily joint supplement all reduce the load and slow progression.
2. Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus, GDV). A true emergency in deep-chested breeds like the Shepherd: the stomach fills with gas and can twist, cutting off blood flow. Bloat/GDV kills quickly, so learn the signs — a swollen abdomen, unproductive retching, drooling, restlessness — and get to a vet immediately. Lower the risk by splitting the daily food into two or more meals, using a slow feeder, and avoiding hard exercise right after eating.
3. Degenerative myelopathy (DM). A progressive, non-painful disease of the spinal cord that the German Shepherd is the breed most historically associated with, linked to a mutation in the SOD1 gene. It typically appears from around eight to nine years of age, starting as hind-limb weakness and incoordination. There's no cure, but a DNA test lets responsible breeders avoid producing affected dogs.
4. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and a sensitive gut. German Shepherds are the breed most commonly affected by EPI, where the pancreas stops producing enough digestive enzymes, causing weight loss despite a big appetite and loose, pale, voluminous stools. It's managed with enzyme supplementation and diet. More broadly, the breed is prone to digestive sensitivity, so consistent, highly digestible food — and a food made for sensitive stomachs where needed — makes a real difference. Persistent digestive signs always warrant a vet visit.
Feeding a German Shepherd (the short version)
German Shepherds do best on a complete, balanced diet formulated for large breeds, with quality protein and fat to fuel their build and energy. Two priorities stand out for this breed: feed two or more smaller meals a day rather than one big serve, to lower bloat risk, and treat digestive sensitivity as the norm — introduce new foods gradually and keep meals consistent. Puppies need a large-breed puppy formula for controlled growth; seniors benefit from adjusted calories and joint support.
For gram-by-gram feeding amounts at every life stage, sensitive-stomach guidance and our vet-recommended picks, see our dedicated vet-approved German Shepherd feeding guide.
Choosing a German Shepherd responsibly
Given how many serious conditions run in the breed, the breeder you choose matters more for a German Shepherd than for most breeds. Look for a breeder who health-tests both parents and is transparent about the results.
Before committing, ask your breeder:
- Have both parents been hip- and elbow-scored?
- Have the parents been DNA-tested for degenerative myelopathy (the SOD1 mutation)?
- Can I meet the parents and see where the puppies are raised?
- What early socialisation and handling have the puppies had?
Avoid puppy farms, online classifieds and sellers who won't show you health testing or the puppies' home environment. A responsible, health-focused breeder is the single best investment you can make in a sound, well-rounded Shepherd.
View our behaviour management products
Adaptil DAP Dog Collar
Adaptil DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) products release synthetic pheromones into the local environment, helping to calm and comfort your dog. Adaptil can help comfort dogs during car travel, help promote learning during training classes, help adult dogs and puppies settle in new homes, or help reduce stress-related behaviours in response to challenging situations such as fireworks, Christmas or a new baby.
Adaptil DAP Collar is an easy to use product which is ideal for puppy socialisation, travel, kennels and training. The dog’s body temperature warms the collar and encourages the diffusion of pheromones into the local environment. It is vital the Adaptil Collar is in close contact with the dog’s skin at all times. Each collar lasts 4 weeks and can be replaced as required.
The Adaptil Collar comes in two sizes:
- puppy/small dogs (fits neck up to 37.5xm)
- medium/large dogs (fits neck up to 62.5cm)
How to fit an Adaptil Collar
- Pass the loop through the end
- Pass the loop over the head
- Adjust to fit snugly and trim excess if necessary
- Check the collar at regular intervals. It must remain snug against the dog's neck.
PAW Complete Calm Chews for Dogs
Unwanted feelings of nervousness, anxiety, stress and fear can all impact your dogs mental wellbeing. Help your dog adapt to changing situations and bring them back to a place of calm with PAW Complete Calm for Medium and Large Dogs.
These tasty chews contain tryptophan to help reduce stress-related behaviour and anxiety-induced aggression, as well as B group vitamins to support the general health and nervous system function in your dog. These nutritious chews contain a rich source of vitamins and minerals which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Highly palatable chew formulated with tasty fish and chickpea protein that is easy to give to your pet on a daily basis.
Tryptophan has been demonstrated to benefit dogs displaying signs of:
- Stress related behaviours such as vocalisation, marking and changes in appetite.
- Anxiety induced aggression.
- General anxiety driving changes in serotonin levels (eg. separation anxiety, travel anxiety).
For animal consumption only. Read the label carefully before use.
Zylkene Plus for Large Dogs 450mg
Zylkene® Plus is a calming complementary feed product which combines two natural origin ingredients to offer a gentle, yet reliably effective way to help pets manage prolonged or recurring emotionally challenging situations. Zylkene® Plus combines the natural origin active ingredients alpha-casozepine and white fish muscle hydrolysate. The effect of alpha-casozepine is based on the principle of satiety and sleepiness in new-borns after feeding on milk/colostrum. Hydrolysing white fish muscle yields bioactive peptides and amino acids that are considered to have calming properties.
The formulation makes it easy to support the long-term emotional wellbeing of every pet:
- Suitable for use in dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes, and is effective both inside and outside the home
- Capsule formulation that can be sprinkled on food, for easy administration
Zylkene® is:
- Of natural origins
- Well tollarated by pets
- Easy to use
- Proven effectiveness
- First-line non-medicine options
- Most recommended calming supplement by vets
German Shepherd FAQs
Are German Shepherds good family dogs?
Yes, German Shepherds can be excellent family dogs. They are loyal, affectionate and protective with the people they're raised with, and typically gentle with children in their own family. Early socialisation and enough daily exercise are essential to bring out that steady, dependable temperament.
How much exercise does a German Shepherd need?
A German Shepherd needs at least two hours of exercise a day, split into several sessions and combined with mental stimulation like training, scent work or puzzle toys. Without enough of both, this intelligent, high-drive breed becomes bored and can develop anxiety and destructive behaviour.
Do German Shepherds shed a lot?
Yes, German Shepherds shed heavily. They have a double coat that sheds year-round and "blows" much more in spring and autumn. Brushing several times a week — and daily during seasonal coat blows, with an undercoat rake — is the best way to manage it.
Are German Shepherds aggressive?
No, a well-bred and well-socialised German Shepherd is not naturally aggressive — they are confident and protective, but stable. Reactivity or aggression in the breed usually stems from poor socialisation, fear, boredom or being left alone too long, which early training and enough exercise largely prevent.
How long do German Shepherds live?
German Shepherds live around 9 to 13 years. A lean body weight, daily exercise, split meals to lower bloat risk, and buying from a breeder who screens for inherited disease all help a Shepherd live a longer, healthier life.
What health problems are German Shepherds prone to?
German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (GDV), degenerative myelopathy, and digestive conditions including exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and a sensitive stomach. Buying from a breeder who health-tests both parents, feeding split meals for a lean weight, and prompt vet care are the best ways to manage the risks.
The bottom line
A German Shepherd is one of the most capable and devoted dogs you can own — and one of the most demanding. Give them the exercise, mental work and early training their working brain needs, stay ahead of the breed's health risks with a good breeder and preventive care, and feed that sensitive gut thoughtfully, and you'll have a loyal companion for a decade or more. When in doubt about your individual dog, your vet is always the best place to start.
Browse our range of food and nutritional products
Vet Recommended Dog Food - Prescription Dry & Wet Food
Browse our wide range of the best dog food in Australia. We stock leading brands such as Royal Canin, Hill's, Purina Pro Plan and more, all of which offer prescription diets that can be beneficial to your dog's health. We also stock a range of Diet Dog Foods to assist with weight management, and Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs, perfect for dogs with certain food sensitivities. Enrich your Dog's lives by providing them with a vet-endorsed diet with our many different products and treats made for your dog.
Dog Treats - Premium Vet Recommended Treats
Check out our large range of Dog treats to help keep your energetic Dog busy and happy. We stock a large range of dental chews including Greenies Dog Chews, and Veggiedent Fr3sh Chews, which are perfect for keeping your dogs teeth clean and healthy. We also stock delicious Soft Dog Treats which are perfect for training your dog, including Vet Best Rewards Treats, Prime100 Treats, and Savourlife Training Treats. We have a wide range of chews your dog is guaranteed to love, shop the best dog treats online today.
Dog Health Products - Probiotics, Supplements & More
Shop our wide range of Veterinary Products for Dogs to keep your dogs healthy and help them live life to the fullest. If your looking for Probiotics, look no further than Pro-Kolin, one of the most advanced multi-strain Probiotics in the world today and is fantastic for your Pets gut health. View our range of Joint Supplements for Dogs, to assist with mobility and movement issues. We also offer a large range of Anti-Anxiety Products for Dogs, including Zylkene to manage anxiety and stress. Browse all these products and more on Vets Love Pets today.
Prescription medications for anxiety, gastrointestinal health, urinary tract & kidney health, pain relief & arthritis and allergy relief are also available through VLP Pharmacy.
Sources
- Hip dysplasia in dogs — VCA Animal Hospitals
- Bloat – gastric dilatation and volvulus in dogs — VCA Animal Hospitals
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in dogs — VCA Animal Hospitals
- Prevalence of the SOD1 mutation associated with canine degenerative myelopathy in German Shepherd dogs — Companion Animal Health and Genetics
