The German Shepherd is a dog breed in the Herding Group. This is one of the most widely recognized breeds, and they are famous for their loyalty and bravery as characterized by the TV series “Rin Tin Tin.” The German Shepherd was recognized by the AKC in 1908 and AKC approved in 1978.
The German Shepherd is a large and strong dog breed, typically between 50 and 88 pounds. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches in height, and females stand 22 to 24 inches. The German Shepherd's fur is double coated, and while some organizations accept long haired German Shepherds, short haired dogs are typically preferred.
German Shepherds are a highly intelligent and agile dog breed with a strong work drive. They are often deployed in various roles such as police work, guarding, search and rescue, therapy, service-dog, and in military applications. The "ideal" German Shepherd should be alert and fearless in defense of its den and pack, but loving and non-aggressive within the home environment.
As is common of many large breeds, German Shepherds are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia. Proper breeding is needed to keep these traits out of the dogs, so that the dog may enjoy a pain free life. Other German Shepherd health problems sometimes occurring in the breed are von Willebrand disease, skin allergies and canine degenerative myelopathy. German Shepherds, like all large bodied dogs, are also prone to bloat.