The 60-second version of the German Shepherd: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home. When you're ready for the deep dive, our full guide has costs, health, food and more.
German Shepherd at a glance
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 22–40 kg |
| Lifespan | 9–13 years |
| Daily exercise | 1.5–2 hours |
| Brushing | 2–3 times weekly |
| Shedding | Very heavy |
| With children | Good, once trained |
Is a German Shepherd right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Experienced owners wanting loyalty plus brains
- Homes committed to training and socialisation
- Active households with space to move
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Hips and elbows need watching — insure early
- A bored Shepherd is a destructive, anxious Shepherd
Food, insurance & the full guide
🍖 Best food: Large-breed joint-support formula with glucosamine
🛡️ Insurance: German Shepherd insurance guide — hips & bloat
📖 Full German Shepherd breed guide →
Read the full German Shepherd guide → Take the 60-second breed quiz 🏡