German Shepherd Dog Puppies for Sale & Breed Guide

About German Shepherd Dog Puppies, Breeders & DogFacts

The German Shepherd Dog, developed in Germany in the late 19th century for herding and protection, is a large, high‑energy member of the Herding Group known for intelligence, loyalty, and a confident, protective temperament. Adults typically stand 22-26 inches tall and weigh about 50-90 pounds, with a dense double coat in colors such as black and tan, sable, or solid black. They need daily vigorous exercise, early socialization, and consistent, positive training, plus regular brushing to manage year‑round shedding with heavier seasonal blowouts; drooling is usually low to moderate and they are not hypoallergenic. Common health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, a progressive spinal disease, and skin or digestive issues. With mental stimulation and engaged handling, they excel as family companions and in working roles such as service, police, and search‑and‑rescue.

Breed Characteristics

Temperament

German Shepherd Dog dogs are known for: Loyal, Confident, Courageous, Steady, Versatile.

• Loyal
• Confident
• Courageous
• Steady
• Versatile

Family & Household Compatibility

• Good with children, this breed is generally compatible with kids.
• Good with other dogs, typically sociable with other dogs.
• Good with cats, generally tolerant of cats when properly introduced.

Known Health Considerations

When researching German Shepherd Dog breeders, ask for documentation of health screening on both parents. Ethical breeders test for breed appropriate conditions through OFA, PennHIP, or breed club specified DNA panels before breeding.

Before You Choose a German Shepherd Dog Puppy

Screened German Shepherd Dog breeders on PuppyReports have submitted documentation, responded to the platform, and maintain an active PuppyReports™ Card. Research any breeder before you make a commitment.

About these recommendations. PuppyReports surfaces the basic health screening recommendations for each breed in accordance with the principles established by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) program. The OFA, working with each breed’s primary US parent club, sets the recommended testing list per breed. Recommendations may vary by country and region (US OFA CHIC, European FCI, UK Kennel Club, Australian National Kennel Council, etc.). Always review current requirements with your breed’s parent club for your jurisdiction. Last reviewed: 2026-05-02.

Sources & further reading: American Kennel Club breed information; Orthopedic Foundation for Animals CHIC program (ofa.org/chic programs). Breed data sourced from PuppyReports™ breeds database. Last reviewed: 2026-04-24.