About German Shepherd

The devotion and courage of German Shepherds are unmatchable! This working dog breed is intelligent and amazingly versatile, excelling at all most anything they’re trained to do: guide and assistance work for the handicapped, police and military service, herding, search and rescue, drug detection, competitive obedience, and–last but not least–they are faithful companions

German Shepherds are also known as the Alsatian in Great Britain and parts of Europe. They owe a part of their renown to a small puppy in France during World War-I

German Shepherd Fun Facts

• World War I introduced GSDs to the American Public
• There are 11 recognised colours of German shepherd dogs
• GSDs are first service dogs
• Schutzhund- A sport invented especially for GSDs
• Rin Tin Tin is one of the most famous German Shepherds Dogs of all-time
• There is a special club for senior GSDs named as ‘The Thirteen Club’
• German Shepherds are the third most intelligent breed in the world

German Shepherd Nutritional Requirements

GSDs are strong, athletic, and active dogs. They love physical exercise and stay active most of the time. Due to their energetic nature, these dogs require a power-packed diet.

GSDs are carnivores, which mean they require a higher content of protein in their diet. This protein is what provides them energy and keeps them strong and healthy. Protein also plays a vital role in your GSD’s growth and it is recommended that a GSD get at least 22% of protein in its diet.

Other than protein, GSDs also require essential vitamins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and fatty acids. The daily caloric levels should range from 1,200 to 2,100 per day (depending on the dog’s activity levels, age, health, etc.)

Note: German Shepherds are prone to bloating, hence a proper diet and right amount of exercise helps in keeping your GSD fit and trim.

Common Diseases/Problems in German Shepherd

Bloating- German Shepherds are prone to bloating.

Symptoms include restlessness, drooling, pale gums.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy- This is a common eye problem found in mostly Adult German Shepherd dogs.

Osteoarthritis- This condition is common for Adult and Senior German Shepherds. This disease is a normal wear and tear for large breed dogs.

Degenerative Myelopathy- Another common disease found in Adult and Senior German Shepherd dogs. Degenerative Myelopathy is a neurologic disease in recessive genetic disorder.

Panosteitis- Signs of lameness in the legs during early stages of development.

Hip Dysplasia- Malfunction of hip joints, common in large breed puppies. The condition is both genetic and environmentally influenced.

Average Life-Span of German Shepherd

On average, healthy German Shepherd Dogs live approximately 9 – 13 years.

Online Products for German Shepherd in India

On PetSutra, you can find great products online for German Shepherd in India. From dry dog food to treats, from supplements to grooming products – we’ve got you covered. Use category filters on this page to narrow down the exact category of products you wish to buy for your Retriever. Parallel to that, you can also choose the life-stage filter.

Choose from the popular products for German Shepherd below.