German Shepherd FAQs

Can a German Shepherd be left alone for longer than 8 hours a day?

No. German Shepherds should not be left alone for more than 8 hours a day. They are easily bored so if they are left alone for that long, they may start engaging in destructive or problematic behavior such as digging, chewing and barking.

Do I need to exercise my German Shepherd?

Yes, at the minimum, the dog should be exercised for at least 45 minutes, twice a day.

Do German Shepherds shed?

Yes, they have a heavy undercoat that requires regular brushing, at least once a week, more often if the dog is blowing its coat. If you are concerned about dog hair on the furniture and on your clothes then you should consider adopting a different breed that sheds less.

Are German Shepherds good with children?

Most German Shepherds are excellent with children. Much of it depends on the temperament of the children and the temperament of the dog. In general, German Shepherds are great family dogs.

Are German Shepherds good with cats?

It depends on the cat and its temperament and behavior.

Do German Shepherds need to be crate trained?

It is a good idea to crate train when the dog first arrives in your home. This sets boundaries for the dog and helps the dog learn the “house rules” during the adjustment period. For puppies, it is easier to house train them using a crate. In addition, keeping a new puppy or even an adult dog in the crate when you cannot provide supervision, will keep them from chewing on items that should not be chewed on. When you crate train, the dog learns that the crate is their own safe place to go. The crate simulates a den-like environment which is comforting for the dog. Another advantage of crate training is when you take the dog to a boarding facility or to the vet, the dog is less likely to be stressed because they are already used to staying in a kennel or crate. The crate should never be used as a punishment.

Should I go to a breeder to get a German Shepherd?

It is a personal choice and a decision you would make based on what you feel is best for your situation. That being said, we strongly advocate adopting from a shelter or a rescue. There are so many wonderful German Shepherds that end up at the shelters through no fault of their own. Many of the dogs we rescue from shelters are purebred so we encourage you to meet our available dogs and see if you find one that steals your heart. If the perfect match isn’t with us, please visit your local shelter or another rescue group to see if you can find your new family member there.