Top 10 Special Dog Breeds for Every Family (esp. for Moms) | You’ll Most Definitely Love #9 Breed

#3. German Shepherd (The Loyal Protector)

The German Shepherd is the ultimate protector and a loyal friend. Their intelligence and loyalty make them the preferred choice for families looking for a four-legged guardian.

These dogs are excellent with children and can be trained for various tasks.

The German Shepherd (GSD) is a medium to large dog breed known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts. They are often used as working dogs in a variety of roles, including police dogs, search and rescue dogs, and guide dogs for the blind.

First brought to the United States in the early 20th century, German Shepherds quickly became popular working dogs. German Shepherds are also popular family pets, but they require a lot of exercise and training.

This may be worth keeping in mind if you’re thinking of adding a German Shepherd puppy to your home. With time, patience, and a lot of love, these exceptional dogs can make wonderful family companions.

Quick Facts About German Shepherd

• Origin: Germany. Originally developed during the late 19th century by Captain Max von Stephanitz, their initial purpose was to her sheep.
• Size: Adult males typically stand around 24 to 26 inches (60 to 65 cm) at the shoulder, while females range from 22 to 24 inches (55 to 60 cm). Their weight can range from 50 to 90 pounds (23 to 41 kg).
• Breed Group: Herding Group
• Lifespan: 9 to 13 years
• Coat: German Shepherds have a double coat that consists of a dense, straight, or slightly wavy outer coat and a soft undercoat. Their color patterns include black and tan, sable (a mix of black and tan with a pattern of dark-tipped hairs), and solid black.
• Temperament: German Shepherds are loyal and create a strong bond with their families. They are often protective and can be aloof or reserved around strangers.
• Exercise Needs: German Shepherds have high energy levels. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potential behavior issues.
• Training: German Shepherds are among the most intelligent dog breeds and are highly trainable. They thrive on learning new commands and tasks. Their adaptability has made them popular choices for roles such as police, search and rescue, and service dogs.
• Grooming: Regular grooming is important. Their double coat sheds year-round and more heavily during shedding seasons. Brushing a few times a week helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy.
• Health: Like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, conditions affecting the ears (such as ear infections) and eyes (such as cataracts), as well as degenerative myelopathy.
• The most famous German Shepherd is probably Strongheart, who starred in over 20 silent films in the early 1920s.
• They can reach sprinting speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.