Long-haired German Shepherd — size comparison

The long-haired German Shepherd has upright ears, an elongated head and a strong body slightly longer than it is tall. Its longer coat with undercoat forms a ruff, a full tail and feathering on the hind legs. It is a variety of the same breed as the short-coated German Shepherd. The build should allow an enduring, free trot and capable movement on uneven ground.

The breed developed from German herding dogs in the late nineteenth century. Max von Stephanitz, co-founder of the club established in 1899, emphasised working ability and dependable behaviour. As traditional herding declined, German Shepherds found roles in police and military work, rescue and guiding blind people.

Generally quick to learn and attentive to a handler, it can become deeply engaged in a task. It learns signals and routines and watches human responses closely. It may be reserved with strangers and alert in new situations. Breeding lines can differ substantially in drive, energy and ability to settle, despite similar appearances.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i wymiary
• Charakter, pielęgnacja i historia
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia