German Shepherds

50 Questions German Shepherd Owners Ask

1. How often should I groom my German Shepherd?
   German Shepherds have a thick double coat that benefits from brushing 3–5 times a week, especially during shedding seasons. Regular grooming helps manage loose fur and prevents mats, while a raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic supports skin and coat health.

2. Do German Shepherds shed a lot?
   Yes. They’re known for shedding year-round and have heavy moults in spring and autumn. A nutritious diet and routine brushing help reduce hair around the house.

3. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need daily?
   At least 2 hours. They’re working dogs with high stamina and thrive on structured walks, training, and off-lead play in secure areas.

4. Are German Shepherds prone to health issues?
   They can be affected by:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia

• Degenerative myelopathy

• Bloat (GDV)

• Skin sensitivities A species-appropriate raw diet from Poppy’s Picnic supports joint and digestive health.

5. What’s the average lifespan of a German Shepherd?
   9 to 13 years, depending on genetics, diet, and overall care.

6. How often should I bathe my German Shepherd?
   Every 8–12 weeks unless they get very muddy. Overbathing can strip their natural oils.

7. How do I care for my Shepherd’s ears?
   Check weekly for dirt and wax. Wipe gently with a dog-safe ear cleanser to avoid infections.

8. How can I tell if my German Shepherd is at a healthy weight?
   Their waist should be visible from above and their ribs felt with light pressure. Poppy’s Picnic feeding plans help keep portions right. Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What toys are best for German Shepherds?
   They enjoy tug toys, puzzle feeders, and tough chews. Use raw treats like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs in enrichment toys.

10. How do I keep a German Shepherd coat in top condition?
    Regular brushing, proper hydration, and feeding a raw diet rich in omega oils will help keep their coat glossy and skin healthy.

German Shepherd Behaviour & Temperament: 40 More Common Questions

11. Are German Shepherds good with children?
    Yes, they’re protective and loyal. Early socialisation and respectful handling from children are essential.

12. Do German Shepherd get along with other dogs?
    They can, but need early, structured introductions. They may be dominant or aloof with unfamiliar dogs.

13. Are German Shepherds easy to train?
    Exceptionally. They’re intelligent and thrive on structure and consistency. Raw food rewards like Poppy’s Picnic are excellent motivators.

14. Do German Shepherds bark a lot?
    They’re vocal and will bark to alert or communicate. Controlled socialisation and engagement reduce unnecessary barking.

15. Can German Shepherds live in flats?
    It’s not ideal due to their size and energy levels, but possible with ample exercise and mental stimulation.

16. Do German Shepherds enjoy cuddles?
    Some do, especially if bonded closely. Others prefer to show affection through companionship and play.

17. Can tGerman Shepherds be left alone?
    They can become anxious if left too long. Build up alone time gradually and provide mental activities, like frozen Poppy’s Picnic meals.

18. Are they hypoallergenic?
    No, they shed heavily and produce dander.

19. How do I socialise my German Shepherd?
    Expose them early and positively to a wide variety of people, places, and other dogs to build confidence and reduce reactivity.

20. Do German Shepherds like water?
    Many do enjoy swimming, but introduce water activities slowly and monitor for comfort.

21. Why does my Shepherd follow me around?
    They’re loyal and people-oriented. It’s part of their desire to stay close to their 'pack'.

22. Are German Shepherds good first dogs?
    They’re best for active, experienced owners or first-time owners committed to training and engagement.

23. Do German Shepherds get bored easily?
    Yes. Without stimulation, they can become destructive or develop problem behaviours. Training and enrichment are vital.

24. Can German Shepherds do agility and advanced obedience?
    They excel at dog sports, police work, and advanced training.

25. How do I calm my Shepherd down indoors?
    Give them a job to do: a chew, puzzle toy, or task. A walk followed by calm enrichment using Poppy’s Picnic can help.

26. What are common behavioural issues in German Shepherds?

• Reactivity

• Barking

• Guarding behaviour

• Separation anxiety Clear boundaries and consistent training help manage these.

27. Why does my Shepherd stare at me?
    They’re paying attention and waiting for cues. It’s a sign of connection and readiness to work.

28. Do German Shepherds need a job or task?
    Yes. Training, scent work, or fetch games satisfy their working instincts.

29. How do I stop German Shepherds chewing everything?
    Redirect with chew toys and ensure enough mental and physical exercise. Chewing often signals boredom or stress.

30. Why is my Shepherd always hungry?
    They have high energy needs. Ensure their diet is nutritionally complete, like with Poppy’s Picnic, and monitor portions.

31. Are German Shepherds good for older adults?
    Only if the adult is very active or has support. Their energy and size require a strong commitment.

32. Can German Shepherds be therapy dogs?
    Yes, with the right temperament and social training, they make focused and empathetic companions.

33. What are signs of stress in German Shepherds?
    Panting, pacing, whining, or sudden behaviours. Calm reassurance and routine help reduce stress.

34. Why does my Shepherd dig?
    They may be bored or seeking a cool spot. Offer digging boxes or redirect with a task.

35. Why do German Shepherds nip at people?
    Usually play-related or herding behaviour. Redirect early and reinforce calm, appropriate interactions.

36. How do I stop my German Shepherd jumping on guests?
    Teach ‘sit to greet’ and reward with attention or treats. Be consistent across household members.

37. Why is my Shepherd pacing at night?
    Could be anxiety or excess energy. Ensure they’ve exercised well and have a structured evening routine.

38. Why do German Shepherds bark at noises outside?
    They’re natural guardians. Controlled exposure and positive reinforcement help reduce over-alerting.

39. How do I stop my German Shepherd pulling on the lead?
    Train using a stop-and-go method. Reward loose-lead walking with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

40. How can I keep my German Shepherd mentally stimulated?
    Use working challenges like scent games, trick training, and food puzzles. Scatter feeding with Poppy’s Picnic treats works well.

41. Can German Shepherds live with cats?
    Yes, with proper introduction and supervision. Start slowly and reinforce calm behaviour.

42. How do I handle separation anxiety in German Shepherds?
    Use gradual desensitisation, consistent routines, and enrichment activities to build confidence during alone time.

43. Do German Shepherds adjust well to new environments?
    They can be cautious at first but adapt with consistency and reassurance.

44. How do I introduce a baby to my German Shepherd?
    Keep initial interactions calm. Reward calm behaviour and never force contact.

45. Why does my Shepherd eat grass?
    Occasional grass eating is normal. If frequent, assess diet or possible gastrointestinal discomfort.

46. Can I run with my German Shepherd?
    Yes, they make excellent running partners once fully developed. Avoid overexertion in hot weather.

47. Should I crate train my Shepherd?
    Yes, crates can offer structure and safety when introduced properly.

48. How do I entertain my German Shepherd indoors?
    Teach tricks, use food puzzles, or hide treats around the home. Poppy’s Picnic nuggets are great for hide-and-seek games.

49. Why does my Shepherd howl?
    They may be mimicking sounds or expressing emotion. It’s typically harmless unless excessive.

50. What’s the best daily routine for a German Shepherd?

• Morning walk and breakfast 

• Midday enrichment or training

• Afternoon play or job-like tasks

• Evening walk and wind-down They thrive on structured routines, meaningful activity, and companionship.