The proper English name for this breed is the German Shepherd Dog, as it is the literal translation of the German name, Deutscher Shaferhund. However, these dogs are usually referred to as German Shepherds or GSDs, for short. These dogs are also referred to as police dogs because they are predominantly used by many police forces. The name Alsatian is also common for this breed, as during World War I the name was used due to the ill feelings towards things that were German. Alsace is a traditionally German-speaking area of France and is where the name was derived from. Many breeders in the United Kingdom and Ireland still use this name. The name, German Shepherd Dog, was not officially recognized by the British Kennel Club until 1977.

Captain Max von Stephanitz registered the first German Shepherd dog in April 1899. Until 1915, both the longhaired and wirehaired dog was exhibited and the shorthaired dog was first presented in Berlin in 1889. The dogs from Wurtemberg, Bavaria and Thurginia have been known to be responsive, obedient and handsome.

The German Shepherd is a large dog that has a double-coat and can be either short or longhaired or wirehaired. Some dogs are black, but most are tan with a black saddle marking. There are a variety of other colors, such as white, but many are not recognized by the breed clubs. The different kennel clubs have different standards for the breed. The white German Shepherd is now called the American White Shepherd and now recognized as a separate breed.

These dogs are large and males may weigh up to 125 pounds. Females may weight around 85 pounds. These dogs are also known for their bites. This is because they have been used in police forces as well as other armed forces. It is estimated that these dogs have a bite force of around 750-1200 pounds, half that of the gray wolf. The dog is known for its sloped back and sharp angles of the hock joint, although these may vary from dog to dog depending on the line of dogs that it was bred from.

The German Shepherd is a dog that is known for its fearlessness and willing to protect, especially children. They are approachable and quietly stand low to the ground. These dogs are both eager and willing to perform as a companion, watchdog as well as a guide dog. These dogs should remain confident at all times and should never cower or appear nervous. The ideal dog is a working animal with a body and gait that is suitable for work.

German Shepherds will do okay in an apartment setting, but they do best with a yard. These dogs tend to be relatively inactive indoors, so they make both good indoor and outdoor dogs. These dogs love to work and be trained. They are very intelligent and crave to be challenged in some way, that's why Dog Obedience Training is highly recommended. They love daily walks that are long and brisk. They can also go running and jogging with you. If these dogs do not received adequate exercise, they become bored and destructive.