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The German Shepherd dog is one of the most popular dog breeds kept by households around the world. 

German Shepherds are large and spry, making them the perfect all-purpose worker. These dogs are highly intelligent, which helps make them an asset to their owners.

This breed is one of the most active on the planet. You may see them working as K9 units, in airports, and the military.

Many people wonder about the differences between male and female German Shepherds. What sets them apart? How are they the same?

female vs male german shepherd

German Shepherd overview

The German Shepherd dog is famously known as a German herding dog that was bred for herding sheep. 

They are a working dog that grows to a medium or large size and have a lifespan of 9-13 years. 

Also known as the Alsatian dog, the German Shepherd is overall one of the best dogs you can keep as they are very obedient, loyal, mild-mannered, protective, and easy to train.

They are now used as guide dogs, police dogs, guard dogs, and are commonly used in movies. 

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pair of german shepherds

The Size and Weight of German Shepherds

Male German Shepherds can weigh as much as 88 pounds or more. These large dogs are highly muscular, with a flowing physique and large stature.

German Shepherds stand a stately 26-inches at their broad shoulders. It is important to note, as with any dog, that these are just the averages. There are always exceptions to averages.

Female vs Male German Shepherd

How Do Male and Female German Shepherds Differ?

If you are considering becoming the owner of one of these fiercely loyal dogs, you probably wonder about the differences between males and females.

One of the most obvious differences between these two genders is weight. While males weigh in at an average of 68-88 pounds, females typically weigh less.

The average female German Shepherd weighs between 48 to 70 pounds. The female is also slightly shorter in stature. Females, while lighter, are typically broader in their bodies.

Security guard with dog near building
Security guard with dog near building

How Much Do Female and Male German Shepherd Puppies Weigh?

Those who are considering bringing home a German Shepherd puppy need to be aware of how quickly these dogs grow. The average one-month male puppy weight is 5.5 – 9 pounds. Male German Shepherds can weigh up to 57 pounds by the time they reach the age of six months old.

At one-month-old, female German Shepherds weigh between 4.5 – 8 pounds. By the time she reaches six months old, she will weigh between 44 – 49 pounds, a few pounds less than her male counterpart.

Female German Shepherd with puppies
Female German Shepherd with puppies

Personality Differences Between Male and Female German Shepherds

Aside from their height and weight differences, there are also other variations between the two dog genders. Some of these differences are also true of other breeds.

Male German Shepherd Personalities

Male German Shepherds are typically more aggressive and have dominant personalities. This is why you will see many males working in the military or for the police.

Males are fiercely loyal to their owners but may become aggressive towards strangers. Male German Shepherds can also be more difficult to train.

male and female german shepherd

Female German Shepherd Personalities

Females are generally sweet-natured and calmer than males. They can be moody and want to be alone more than males. Female German Shepherds are also easier to train, for the most part.

How Does the Health Differ Between Male and Female German Shepherds?

Although many of the same health issues afflict both males and females, there are some gender-specific health concerns, especially if the male is not neutered, and the female is not spayed.

Male Health Risks

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Pancreatic insufficiency
  • Allergies
  • Ear infections
  • Prostate cancer
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Elbow dysplasia

Female Health Risks

  • Mammary cancer
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Gastric dilation
  • Pancreatic insufficiency
  • Allergies
  • Ear infections
  • Elbow dysplasia
German shepherd being examined

Are Males or Females Best With Children?

Although parents of small children are sometimes afraid to adopt German Shepherds into their families because of the sheer size of these dogs, the main concern is training. A properly trained dog is safe around children of all ages.

Female German Shepherds do tend to shine when it comes to the best gender for small children. Perhaps it is their mothering ways that make them more suitable for little ones.

No matter the gender, proper training of both dog and child will allow for a lifelong bond that cannot be broken. Because German Shepherds are so fiercely protective, they will help keep a child safe.

Supervision is key when it comes to introducing a German Shepherd to a family with small children. Never allow the child to pull on the dog’s ears or tail. The child should not be allowed to sit or stand on the dog.

German Shepherd with children
German Shepherd with children

What Is the Biggest German Shepherd on Record?

In 2014, the Largest German Shepherd in the World title belonged to Duke. This gentle giant weighs in at a massive 131 pounds and stands 32 inches tall.

Being huge must run in the family because Duke has a son that is almost as large as he is at present. You may be shocked to learn the claims of Duke’s owners.

It turns out they believe Duke’s massive size comes from a diet of mostly spinach. Born in Pulaski, Tennessee, Duke lives on a farm and enjoys a very active lifestyle. It appears his size has not impeded his ability to run and have fun.

Only time will tell if someone beats Duke’s impressive weight record. Duke may have been bred as a working dog, which means he is likely going to have a larger body and a flatter, thicker back.

Male and Female German Shepherd Dogs: Which Is Better?

You have learned a lot of comparisons regarding male and female German Shepherds, so which one is better? The answer to this question depends on you.

Both genders can take on characteristics from the other, depending on their genes and training. No gender is superior.

No matter whether you choose a male or female, you are going to find German Shepherds to be one of the most beautiful, intelligent, and protective breeds.

Once trained properly, these dogs will remain loyal friends for life, working to please you in every way possible.

German Shepherd laying on grass

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