German Shepherd

German Shepherd Grooming Profile

German Shepherds are high-maintenance, large-sized companions requiring 2 to 3.5 cups of daily food and significant exercise. They are heavy shedders with dense double coats requiring frequent grooming, reaching full physical maturity by age three.

Breed Group

Herding Dogs

Country of Origin

Germany

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1908

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1955

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

1 / 10

Shedding

Heavy

Grooming need

60-90 mins/week

4 / 10

Low-maintenance

Very Hard

1 / 10

Size

Large

8 / 10

Growth timeline

36 months

8 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are German Shepherd hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

German shepherds are not hypoallergenic. They possess a dense double coat that sheds heavily year-round, with significant blow outs during seasonal changes in spring and fall. This constant release of dander and fur makes them a challenging choice for individuals with pet allergies. German Shepherds possess a dense double coat that sheds heavily year-round.

Allergy-friendly: 1 / 10

Do German Shepherd shed?

German Shepherds are heavy year-round shedders, famously nicknamed German Shedders. They possess a thick double coat that sheds constantly, with intense seasonal blowouts in the spring and fall. Managing the fur requires brushing several times a week and frequent vacuuming due to constant shedding to keep your home comfortable.

How often should you groom a German Shepherd?

To keep your German Shepherd's thick double coat healthy, brush them at least two to three times a week. During heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall, daily brushing is essential. Regular grooming helps manage shedding, prevents painful mats, and maintains the skin's natural oils.

Grooming need: 4 / 10

Are German Shepherd low-maintenance dogs?

German shepherds are high-maintenance companions that require significant time and dedication. They are heavy shedders needing at least weekly brushing and demand one to two hours of daily exercise. Additionally, their high intelligence necessitates consistent training and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors and boredom.

Low-maintenance: 1 / 10

How big do German Shepherd get?

German Shepherds are large, powerful dogs with a sturdy build. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh 65 to 90 pounds, while females reach 22 to 24 inches and weigh 50 to 70 pounds. Their athletic frame requires ample space and regular exercise to thrive.

Size: 8 / 10

When do German Shepherd stop growing?

German shepherds typically reach their full adult height by 18 months, but they take up to 3 years to fully fill out and reach physical maturity.

Growth timeline: 8 / 10

How much should a German Shepherd eat?

An active adult German Shepherd typically needs between 1,740 and 2,100 calories per day, divided into two meals. Highly active or working dogs may require more. Always monitor their weight closely, as this breed is prone to joint-straining obesity.

Feeding amount: 6 / 10

How often should a German Shepherd puppy eat?

German Shepherd puppies require frequent, small meals to support their rapid growth. Feed your puppy three to four times daily until they are six months old. Afterward, transition to two meals per day using a high-quality, large-breed puppy formula to ensure steady development and joint health.

Puppy feeding frequency: 3 / 10

Vet Insights

German Shepherds are high-maintenance, large-sized companions requiring 2 to 3.5 cups of daily food and significant exercise. They are heavy shedders with dense double coats requiring frequent grooming, reaching full physical maturity by age three.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified