Iris' Den
All about German Shepherds
Click on the GSD above and you will go to the breed standard at the AKC web site.
Graphic providied by Babycass's Den
German Shepherds are said to be the most versatile dog in the world. Well, that�s pretty much true. GSD�s can be a police dog and catch a bad man, and afterwards he�s tolerating a 3 year old pulling at his tail. He�ll be viguriously herding the sheep and afterwards be playing with the lambs. You can only get this out of a German Shepherd.
German Shepherds are fairly large dogs. Females are 22-24 inches high and weighing between 65-75 pounds. Males are usually around 26 inches high and weigh between 80-100 pounds. The hair usually is fairly short, but thickly put in. Some can have long feathering and long hair all over. The latter is called a "long-hair". The long-hair is not acceptable by the AKC (American Kennel Club).
Along with the long-haired GSD�s not being acceptable by the AKC, there is all white, liver and blue GSD�s. None of these are allowed to compete in AKC conformation shows. However, they are welcome to show in obedience, agility, etc. They also make fine police or Search & Rescue dogs. Or just a great family pet. Go (here to see all the different GSD colors.)
These dogs are extreamly loyal to the one that loves and cares for them. They also have a bond with those in the family and friends. Strangers they don't usually care for. However, there are many GSD's doing therapy work. All of them will be loyal, but depending upon how friendly they are depends on how you raise them.
GSD�s are wonderful for SOME people. They ARE NOT the dog for everyone, though. These dogs need ALOT of exercise! If someone is not willing to let them outside in a fenced yard or take them for a couple long walk you shouldn�t get one. Also, if you�re not willing to give them some kind of job, they can be distructive. They�ll start digging, or rip up the couch. They need something to keep them busy.
The cost of a puppy GSD depends on what you want the dog for. If you want it to be a pet, he could cost between $450-800 dollars. If show quality is what you want, he might cost between $800-1,000+ dollars. It all depends on where you live, what you want and the breeder. There's also rescue dogs, that make great pets. They're usually $150-200, for costs of spaying, shots, etc. But, whether you get a dog from a breeder or a rescue, they're all great dogs!
