Last updated: June 15, 2026 · 9-minute read
How Do You Care for a German Shepherd? The Short Answer
German Shepherds are intelligent, athletic working dogs that need quality protein, daily exercise, early training, and plenty of safe chewing. Because they are powerful, large-breed chewers, the best treats are single-ingredient, 100% real meat, fully digestible, and contain no rawhide. At Bully Sticks Central our chews are ethically sourced from grass-fed American and Argentinean farms and 100% high-quality guaranteed, so your Shepherd gets long-lasting enrichment without mystery ingredients.
Key takeaways
- German Shepherds are medium-to-large working dogs originally bred for herding, now used in police, search-and-rescue, and service roles.
- They are hearty eaters prone to obesity, so portion control and high-protein nutrition matter.
- Average lifespan is 10–12 years; exercise, joint care, and dental health help extend it.
- They are strong, determined chewers — choose durable, fully digestible chews with no rawhide.
- Single-ingredient chews like bully sticks, beef cheek rolls, and trachea support dental health and natural chewing instincts.
What Is a German Shepherd's Temperament?
German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and protective. They are highly trainable and excel at obedience and agility, which is why they dominate police and service work. They bond closely with their families and make excellent guardians, but early socialization and consistent training from puppyhood are essential to prevent over-guarding or wariness toward strangers. A bored Shepherd is a destructive Shepherd, so daily mental and physical enrichment — including chewing — keeps them balanced.
What Should You Feed a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds do well on a high-quality, large-breed-formulated diet with real animal protein as the first ingredient. Feed measured portions based on age, weight, and activity level rather than free-feeding, since the breed is prone to obesity and bloat. Whole-food additions like cooked lean meat or dog-safe vegetables can complement their meals. Always avoid foods toxic to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and xylitol.
For treats and chews, single-ingredient is best. Our 6-inch standard bully sticks and 12-inch monster bully sticks are 100% real beef muscle — no rawhide, no chemicals, fully digestible.
German Shepherd serving guide by life stage
| Life stage | Approx. weight | Best chews | Chew frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy (3–12 mo) | 20–55 lb | 6-inch standard bully sticks, beef trachea tubes | Supervised, 10–15 min sessions |
| Adult (1–7 yr) | 50–90 lb | 12-inch monster bully sticks, beef cheek rolls, cow ears | Daily, supervised |
| Senior (8+ yr) | 50–85 lb | Beef trachea tubes, beef tendons, tripe twists | Daily, softer chews |
What Are the Best Chews for a German Shepherd?
Because Shepherds chew hard, you want durable, single-ingredient options that hold up without splintering like cooked bones can. Great choices include 12-inch monster bully sticks for serious chewers, beef cheek rolls as a safe rawhide alternative, cow ears for a lighter daily treat, beef trachea tubes (a natural source of glucosamine for joints), regular beef tendons, and 10-inch tripe twist sticks. Browse the full range in our natural dog treats and chews collection.
How Do You Manage Shedding and Coat Care?
German Shepherds shed moderately year-round and blow their coats heavily in spring and fall. Brush several times a week with a slicker brush or undercoat rake to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Bathe only as needed to avoid stripping natural oils. A diet rich in quality protein and omega fatty acids supports a healthy, glossy double coat.
Can You Make a Homemade German Shepherd Treat?
Yes — here is a simple, high-protein baked treat your Shepherd will love. It pairs well with a long-lasting chew for enrichment afterward.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix 1 lb lean ground beef, 1 cup rolled oats, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of unsweetened pumpkin puree.
- Stir until combined, then roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and flatten slightly onto the sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm and cooked through, then let cool completely.
- Store in the refrigerator up to 5 days, or freeze for longer; serve as a training reward in moderation.
Related reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chew for a German Shepherd?
For strong adult Shepherds, 12-inch monster bully sticks and beef cheek rolls are ideal — single-ingredient, fully digestible, and durable, with no rawhide.
Are bully sticks safe for German Shepherds?
Yes. Bully sticks are 100% real beef muscle, fully digestible, and free of rawhide and chemicals. Always supervise chewing and remove small end pieces.
How long do German Shepherds live?
Most German Shepherds live 10–12 years. Regular exercise, joint support, dental care, and a healthy weight can help maximize lifespan.
How much should I feed a German Shepherd?
Feed measured portions based on age, weight, and activity level using a large-breed-formulated diet. Avoid free-feeding, as the breed is prone to obesity and bloat.
Do German Shepherds shed a lot?
Yes, they shed moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal coat changes. Brushing several times a week keeps shedding manageable.
Are German Shepherds aggressive chewers?
They are powerful, determined chewers. Choose durable single-ingredient chews and avoid cooked bones, which can splinter.
What treats are good for German Shepherd puppies?
Smaller, softer single-ingredient chews like 6-inch standard bully sticks and beef trachea tubes are great for supervised puppy chewing.
What human foods are toxic to German Shepherds?
Avoid chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything containing xylitol, as these are toxic to dogs.
Preston Smith is the co-founder of Bully Sticks Central. He started BSC because he couldn't find single-ingredient, fully digestible chews he trusted to give his own dogs — no rawhide, no chemicals, no mystery ingredients. He writes about dog nutrition, safe chews, and the practical side of feeding dogs well. Read more about Preston →
This post was last updated at August 1, 2026 10:58
