Life With Your German Shepherd

Practical, friendly advice for feeding, grooming, exercise and everyday living — the Pawtango way.

Overview

The German Shepherd (GSD) is a medium-to-large, athletic working dog known for intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. They’re energetic, people-focused, and thrive with structure, training, and a clear job to do.

• Confident and devoted; often reserved with strangers but deeply bonded to family.
• Highly trainable; excels at obedience and task-oriented work when mentally engaged.

Feeding & Diet

Schedule

• Puppy (2–12 mo): 3–4 small meals per day.
• Adult (1–7 yr): 2 balanced meals per day.
• Senior (7+ yr): 2 smaller, easy-to-digest meals per day.

Portions

• Puppies: ~½–1 cup per meal; adjust for growth and activity.
• Adults: ~2½–3½ cups per day, split into two meals (body-condition score is your guide).
• Seniors: ~2–3 cups per day depending on metabolism and activity.

Food Types

• Kibble: High-protein formulas with named meat sources; consider large-breed blends.
• Fresh/Raw: Can support muscle/coat if balanced; follow vet or nutritionist guidance.
• Wet: Highly palatable; monitor calories and support with dental care.

Shop GSD-friendly food & bowls

Exercise & Training

• Daily activity: 90–120 minutes (structured walks, jogging, fetch, tracking, swimming).
• Training: Short, focused sessions with positive reinforcement; add impulse-control and engagement games.
• Mental work: Nosework, puzzle feeders, obedience drills, “place” and “heel” practice.
• Favorites: Tracking, agility foundations, flirt pole (controlled), long-line hikes.

Grooming & Maintenance

• Coat: Double coat; sheds year-round with seasonal “blowouts.”
• Brushing: 3–4×/week; daily during sheds with an undercoat rake/slicker.
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed; fully dry undercoat to avoid skin issues.
• Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks.
• Ears/Teeth: Check ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week or use dental chews.

Common Health Considerations

• Hip/Elbow Dysplasia: Maintain lean weight; use controlled, low-impact exercise and ramps as needed.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): Discuss screening in breeding lines; watch for hind-end weakness in seniors.
• Bloat/GDV risk: Use measured meals, avoid vigorous activity right after eating; ask your vet about gastropexy for high-risk dogs.
• Skin/Allergies & EPI: Monitor for chronic itch, digestive issues, or weight loss; seek vet guidance early.

This information is general; always consult your veterinarian for specifics.

Best Practices for GSD Owners

• Structure: Consistent routines reduce anxiety and channel drive into good habits.
• Job to Do: Daily obedience, scent games, or light task training prevents boredom behaviors.
• Socialization: Ongoing, calm exposures to people/places; reward neutrality and focus.
• Chew management: Durable chews and toy rotation to protect furniture and satisfy drive.

Recommended Gear

• Harness & Leash: Padded, no-pull or front-clip harness; 5–6 ft leash for control.
• Training tools: Long line for recall practice; treat pouch; sturdy tether point for decompression.
• Bed/Crate: Orthopedic support; crate sized for comfort and downtime.
• Toys: Tough fetch toys, puzzle feeders, flirt pole (used with rules), scent-work kits.

Shop GSD-friendly walking gear

Quick Facts: Size 50–90 lb • Lifespan 9–13 yr • Energy High • Shedding High • Trainability Very High.

New to GSDs? Start with a measured feeding plan, daily structured exercise, and weekly undercoat maintenance.