German Shepherd
Canis lupus familiaris · Mammal, Vertebrate, Warm-blooded, Domestic
Animal Family
Family Canidae, order Carnivora, class Mammalia
Animal Category
Domestic Pet
Breed / Variety
German Shepherd Dog
Conservation Status
Domesticated species, Not Applicable under IUCN Red List
About This Creature
A medium to large-sized athletic dog with a characteristic black and tan saddle coat, erect ears, and a bushy tail.
Physical Characteristics
Muscular build, double coat with dense undercoat and dense outer coat, dark saddle markings, long bushy tail, alert erect ears, strong jaws.
Behavior & Temperament
Intelligent, loyal, highly trainable, alert, active, protective, and social.
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
Germany, found worldwide in temperate and urban climates
Habitat
Urban/Suburban, Agricultural, Terrestrial
Diet & Nutrition
Omnivore, thrives on commercial or balanced homemade dog diets including meat, grains, and vegetables.
Lifespan & Health
9 to 13 years; prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and gastric torsion.
Special Characteristics
Renowned working dog used in police, military, search-and-rescue, and as guide or guard dogs due to exceptional intelligence and loyalty.
Ecological Information
Domestic companion animal with minimal direct wild ecological impact, though serves as a human companion and working partner globally.