Overview
The German Shepherd is a herding dog by origin and a working dog by temperament: clever, loyal, watchful and happiest when it knows what the rules are. A well-raised Shepherd is steady and easy to handle. A poorly socialised one can be nervous or reactive, and at this size that matters.
For a walker, the breed rewards consistency. Shepherds bond to their handler and read tone and body language closely, so a calm, predictable routine gets you a calm, predictable dog. They are not a breed to walk on autopilot, especially around strangers and other dogs.
Exercise and walking needs
A healthy adult wants around ninety minutes a day, and it should include something to think about. Scent games, finding a hidden toy, basic obedience along the route or a long line in a quiet field all do more for a Shepherd than distance alone.
Puppies and adolescents need their exercise built up slowly; the breed is prone to joint problems and grows for a long time. Older dogs often lose strength in the hindquarters, so keep an eye on how the back end moves on hills and stairs.
On the walk
- Recall: Excellent when trained, but only let the dog off where the owner has agreed and where you are confident around other dogs and people.
- Pulling: A strong dog with a strong opinion. Loose-lead manners are usually taught by the owner; keep to the same cues and equipment they use.
- Other dogs: Selective. Many Shepherds are fine with dogs they know and wary of strange ones, particularly on the lead. Introduce slowly, side by side, and do not force it.
- Strangers: A guarding breed notices everyone. A calm Shepherd will watch and move on; a worried one will bark or stand its ground. Give people space and let the dog see you are relaxed.
- Heat: The double coat holds warmth. Walk in the cooler parts of a hot day and offer water.
Tips for professional walkers
- Start every new Shepherd with a one-to-one walk before adding it to a group, however friendly the owner says it is.
- Use the owner's cues, in the owner's words. Shepherds notice inconsistency.
- Build a job into the walk: a few minutes of heelwork, a search for a toy, a sit and wait at every gate.
- Watch the hindquarters on older dogs and mention any wobble in the walk report.
- Groom-shedding is heavy twice a year; a quick brush at the end of a walk saves the owner's floors and your seats.
What to ask the owner
- How is the dog with strange dogs and with strangers approaching, and what does the owner do in those moments?
- Which cues and equipment are used for loose-lead walking and recall?
- Any history of hip, elbow or spinal problems, and any limits on jumping or stairs?
- Are there particular triggers, such as bikes, joggers or children, that you should plan the route around?