1. Physical Constitution

The physical appearance of the German Shepherd is characterized by a medium-sized stature that is slightly elongated and powerfully constructed. The musculature is exceptionally well-developed, the skeleton is dry, and the overall structure is defined by a remarkable firmness that is indispensable for sustained work performance. The ratio of body length to height at the withers approximates 10:8.5. This proportional harmony is functionally determined and enables optimal movement efficiency. The constitution of the animal is substantial and agile, which conveys the impression of physical efficiency and dexterity, both in a state of rest and in dynamic movement. The entire body structure is designed to ensure a balance between strength, speed, and endurance.

2. Temperamental Characteristics

The ideal temperament of the German Shepherd is characterized by balance, self-assurance, and vigilance, whereby these characteristics interact in a manner that allows for a high readiness to work. It is described as steady, composed, and completely natural. This internal stability, referred to as "Nerve Strength," is a primary prerequisite for the dog's suitability in demanding service and protection roles. A certain degree of reserve toward unfamiliar individuals is expressly noted in the breed standard, which complicates the formation of immediate friendly relationships and is to be understood as a characteristic of healthy distance, not as timidity or aggression. Furthermore, the breed must exhibit courage, resilience, and a will to serve in order to qualify as a suitable companion, guard, and working dog and to meet the requirements of complex tasks. A dog that lacks these qualities is unsuitable for its intended purpose.

3. Measurements and Weight Specifications

The following metric and imperial data serve to classify the animal and to ensure that the physique meets the functional requirements:

• Males:

  • Height (at the withers): 60-65 cm (24-26 inches)

  • Weight: 30-40 kg (65-90 pounds)

• Females:

  • Height (at the withers): 55-60 cm (22-24 inches)

  • Weight: 22-32 kg (50-70 pounds)

The length of the torso should exceed the height at the withers by a value of approximately 10-17%. These specific proportions are of functional significance, as they enable the required ground-covering stride and efficiency in the trot, which are indispensable for a herding and service dog. The weight must be in proportional relation to the height so as not to impair agility and endurance.

4. Anatomy of the Head and Dentition

The anatomy of the head is of great importance. The head is wedge-shaped, powerful but not coarse, and in its proportioning, it is adapted to the body's structure. It appears dry and is free of any loose skin. The muzzle, which constitutes an essential part of the head, is of long and powerful composition, and the nose must have a deep black pigmentation. The jaws are extraordinarily strongly developed to ensure a firm grip.

The dentition, consisting of a complete set of 42 teeth in accordance with the dental formula, requires a scissor bite, in which the incisors of the upper jaw exactly overlap those of the lower jaw. This characteristic is of fundamental importance for biting force and functionality. Any deviation from this, such as an overshot or undershot jaw, as well as the absence of teeth, is considered a serious fault or a cause for disqualification, as it impairs the dog's suitability for working tasks.

5. Torso Anatomy

The torso is defined by a powerful, firm back that ensures the transfer of power from the hindquarters to the forequarters. The topline runs in a harmonious, gently curved line from the neck, over the high withers, which represents a continuation of the neck line, to the slightly sloping croup, without visible interruptions. The chest is of moderate breadth and depth, with its depth corresponding to approximately 45-48% of the height at the withers. The well-defined ribs exhibit a moderate curvature and provide sufficient space for the heart and lungs, which is of decisive importance for the animal's endurance. A barrel-shaped or flat chest is considered a fault.

6. Coat and Coloration

The coat consists of a double mantle, the outer layer of which, the outer coat, should be as dense, straight, and harsh as possible. It lies close to the body and offers protection from the elements. The inner layer, the undercoat, is soft and dense and serves for thermoregulation. Two varieties are recognized according to the breed standard:

• Stock Coat: A medium-length, dense coat, which is considered the classic hair type.

• Long Stock Coat: A longer, softer coat, which has been officially recognized as a separate variety since 2010.

Recognized color schemes include black with markings (reddish-brown, brown, yellow, light gray), solid black, and gray clouded (sable). The nose must have a deep black pigmentation in all color schemes. Individuals with a white coat color are strictly excluded from conformation evaluation, as this is considered a deviation from the breed standard.

7. Movement

The movement of the German Shepherd is manifested in a fluid, ground-covering trot. This trot is the primary gait of the breed and requires a smooth coordination of the limbs. The forequarters move forward with a far-reaching stride, while the hindquarters generate a powerful drive. This movement results in an elastic, seemingly effortless gait that can cover a wide terrain without great effort. During the trot, the backline remains firm and level. The paws are directed toward the body's centerline to maintain balance. Faults in movement, such as an exaggerated drop in the topline, an unnaturally high hindquarters, or an uncoordinated gait, are considered serious faults, as they impair the functional suitability of the dog.

8. Exclusion Criteria

The presence of the following characteristics leads to the disqualification of the animal in the breeding evaluation:

• Temperamental Faults: Timidity, nervousness, or excessive aggression, as these qualities make the animal unsuitable for its intended tasks.

• Monorchidism or Cryptorchidism: Unilateral or bilateral defects, as they indicate genetic problems.

• Extreme Structural Deviations: Faults such as over- or under-angulated limbs, which impair mobility and long-term health.

• Severe Dental Faults: Faults such as an overshot or undershot bite, which impair the dog's biting force.

• Cropped Ears or a Docked Tail: Any form of artificial modification that impairs the natural body structure.

• Coat Colors Not Listed in the Standard: Colors that deviate from the established breeding guideline.

1. Physical Build

This part describes the dog's overall body type. A German Shepherd should be medium-sized, meaning it fits within specific height and weight ranges. The term "slightly elongated" describes a body that's a bit longer than it is tall, a key characteristic of the breed. The dog should have a strong, muscular build with a solid, well-defined skeleton, which is essential for endurance as a working dog. The ratio of 10:8.5 (body length to height) is a critical measurement that ensures these ideal proportions are met.

2. Temperament

This section outlines the ideal personality of the breed. Key traits include balance, self-assurance, and alertness. The concept of "Nerve Strength" is a crucial part of this, referring to the dog's inner stability and composure. This allows it to handle stressful situations without becoming shy or overly aggressive. The standard also notes a natural reserve towards strangers, which means the dog shouldn't be immediately friendly. This is considered a desirable trait for a protection dog. The dog must also show courage, resilience, and a strong "will to serve," which is its desire to work and please its owner.

3. Measurements and Weight

These are the precise size standards for male and female dogs. The specified height at the shoulder and weight ranges are used by breeders and judges to make sure the dogs are the proper size for their work. The requirement that the torso length exceeds the height by 10-17% is vital for the breed's efficient, ground-covering trot. The weight must be proportionate to the height to prevent a dog from being too heavy, which would impact its agility and endurance.

4. Head and Teeth

This part focuses on the head and teeth. The head should be a strong, wedge shape with no loose skin. The muzzle must be long and powerful, and the nose must be completely black. The jaws should be exceptionally strong to ensure a firm grip. The most important dental requirement is the scissor bite, where the top front teeth fit perfectly over the bottom front teeth. A full set of 42 teeth is required. Any dental flaws, like an overbite or underbite, are considered serious and can lead to disqualification.

5. Torso Anatomy

This section describes the main body structure. The back should be strong and firm to ensure efficient power transfer from the hindquarters. The "topline" is the smooth, gently curved line that runs from the neck, over the high shoulders, to the tail, without any dips or bumps. The chest should be moderately broad and deep to provide enough space for the heart and lungs, which is essential for the dog's stamina.

6. Coat and Color

German Shepherds have a double coat for protection: a dense, straight, and hard outer coat and a soft, thick undercoat for insulation. The standard recognizes two coat types: the Stock Coat (standard medium-length coat) and the Long Stock Coat (a longer, softer coat). Accepted colors include black with reddish-brown, brown, yellow, or light gray markings, solid black, and gray. The nose must always be black. Dogs with a white coat are strictly excluded from evaluations.

7. Movement

This section details the correct way for the dog to move. The ideal movement is a fluid, ground-covering trot that appears effortless. The front legs should extend far forward, while the back legs provide a powerful push. The back should remain firm and level during the trot. Any flaws in movement, such as a back that is too sloped or an uncoordinated gait, are considered serious faults.

8. Exclusion Criteria

These are the characteristics that will lead to a dog's disqualification from breeding or showing. They include temperamental faults (timidity or aggression), genetic defects (like undescended testicles), extreme structural flaws in the limbs, severe dental problems, and any artificial alterations like cropped ears or tails. Additionally, any coat colors not specifically listed in the standard are grounds for disqualification.

1. Body and Build

A German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog. Its body is strong and fit, built to be a great working dog. They should be a little longer than they are tall. The dog's body is balanced for strength, speed, and endurance.

2. Personality

A good German Shepherd is confident, calm, and alert. They are steady and brave, which is why they are so good at service jobs. They are often a little cautious with new people, which is normal. They should also be ready to work and please their owner.

3. Size and Weight

These are the standard sizes for the breed:

• Male Dogs:

  • Height: 60-65 cm (24-26 inches)

  • Weight: 30-40 kg (65-90 pounds)

• Female Dogs:

  • Height: 55-60 cm (22-24 inches)

  • Weight: 22-32 kg (50-70 pounds)

The dog's body should be 10-17% longer than its height.

4. Head and Teeth

The head is a strong wedge shape. The snout is long and powerful, and the nose must be black. The jaws are very strong.

They must have a full set of 42 teeth. The teeth need to have a scissor bite, where the top teeth fit perfectly over the bottom teeth. Any problems with the bite or missing teeth are considered a serious fault.

5. Body Shape

The back should be strong and firm. The top line of the back should be a smooth, gentle curve from the neck to the tail. The chest should be deep to give plenty of room for the heart and lungs, which helps with stamina.

6. Coat and Colors

They have a double coat for protection. The outside coat is dense and harsh, and the inside coat is soft. There are two types:

• Standard Coat: A medium-length, dense coat.

• Long Coat: A longer, softer coat.

Common colors are black with tan, black, or gray. The nose must be black. White dogs are not allowed in the show ring.

7. Movement

A German Shepherd's movement is a smooth, easy trot. They cover a lot of ground with each step. Their back should stay flat and level while they are trotting. Poor movement is a serious fault.

8. Reasons for Disqualification

A dog cannot be bred or shown if it has:

• Bad personality: Timid, nervous, or overly aggressive.

• Bad health: Genetic issues.

• Bad body structure: Problems with their legs that hurt their movement.

• Bad teeth: Problems with their bite.

• Cropped ears or tail.

• Wrong coat colors.