Updated 5/14/2025
Charismatic, adorable, loyal, and protective, German Shepherds are arguably the most adorable big dog pets to own. Not only are they smart, their charisma makes them a must have in our homes as they complement our lives perfectly. Like the Labrador Retriever, they are also incredibly smart.
The German Shepherd dog (GSD) is one of the larger dog breeds with multiple excellent qualities. Its average lifespan is 9-13 years, which concurs with the timeline for most dogs. However, a range of factors may affect its livelihood, and it is essential to pay attention to these concerns to prolong their lives.
It has been the second most popular breed in the United States for ten years and is noted for its loyalty, intellect, and courage. When you adopt or buy a German Shepherd dog, one of your concerns is their lifespan and ways to keep the dog in good health for a lifetime. Let’s explore multiple factors that increase the life expectancy of a German Shepherd.
Tips to Improve the Life Expectancy of a German Shepherd
While the average lifespan of a German Shepherd dog is 9-13 years, you can still prolong your dog’s life by practicing good dog habits and prioritizing their physical and psychological well-being. Below are some strategies you can use to keep your dog health and happy, hence prolonging its life.
1. Consider Annual Check-ups
One of the great ways to increase this dog breed’s natural life is to ensure they get regular annual check-ups for older breeds and twice a year for puppies (as a side note, 18 months is usually when German Shepherds stop growing). Large breeds are highly susceptible to joint and hip issues such as hip dysplasia.
Taking a German Shepherd to the vet allows for prompt identification of potentially fatal German Shepherd health issues. Visually, it is difficult to detect whether a dog is in pain because they may cover up how they are feeling. But aside from injuries, you should also look for other obvious symptoms, like German Shepherd skin issues. The vet will identify specific diseases and conditions before they become fatal.
2.Keep them Active/Lean
Feeding a German Shepherd dog with quality food is a sure way to keep them lean and extend their lifetime by approximately 18-24 months. It is essential to feed them appropriate rations while avoiding over-feeding your puppy.
A study tracking 48 Labrador retrievers for ten years established that dogs fed 25% less food indicated 18-24 month growth in their life expectancy compared to larger breeds on a regular diet. The sample also experienced numerous health gains such as lower triiodothyronine, triglycerides, insulin, and glucose. A healthy diet for a German Shepherd includes 18-22% protein ranges in low carb, high-quality dog food.
Appropriate dog food portions vary depending on the size and age of the dog. An active grown German Shepherd should consume 1,740 and 2,100 calories daily, while an inactive one should feed 1,272 and 1,540 daily.
3. Allow them to Exercise
Keeping dogs active is one of the well-researched ways to prolong their lives. Engaging the German Shepherd in at least two hours of exercise per day maintains optimum longevity and health. This breed becomes highly susceptible to hind leg frailty as they grow older. Hence, keeping them engaged to prevent muscle atrophy and maintain strong legs is a priority.
Some of the fun activities to engage the German Shepherd include:
- Playing Fetch with a toy, ball, or frisbee
- Creating a customizable obstacle course
- Taking a walk/hike regularly
These will improve the dog’s overall health and keep their mind functioning optimally.
4. Spay or Neuter at the Right Age
Spaying or neutering reduces the likelihood of prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and the risk of developing reproductive system complications. The life expectancy of neutered male dogs increases by 13.8%, while female dogs indicate a 26.3% increase in their natural life.
The male German Shepherd is neutered between 12 and 15 months after they are in an appropriate growth stage. Choosing prior timelines may impose adverse effects on their skeletal development. Female breeds are spayed before five months.
5. Dental Care
Owners/caregivers should brush the teeth of the German Shepherd every day to decrease the occurrence rate of periodontal infections and prolong the life expectancy by 3 to 5 years. Several studies highlight that approximately 90% of dogs above three years have periodontal disorders.
These account for some of the most infectious issues impacting adult dogs. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition caused by oral bacteria that targets a dog’s jaws. It progresses and may worsen in a short while.
Untreated, periodontal disease can result in tooth loss and additional damage to the German Shepherd’s bloodstream, affecting the lungs, kidneys, and heat. This infection may be fatal without proper treatment.
Some techniques to prevent periodontal disease include:
- Keep the dog engaged to keep them away from chewing harmful objects
- Give the dog safe toys and bones to chew on
- Give the dog healthy treats
- Feed the German Shepherd dry foods to prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar
- Brush the dog’s teeth every day using special toothpaste
6. Grooming and Coat Care
Regular grooming is essential for maintaining your German Shepherd’s coat and skin health, which directly contributes to their overall life expectancy. This breed has a thick double coat, which can become prone to matting, skin irritation, and shedding if not cared for properly.
Brush your German Shepherd’s coat at least once a week to remove loose fur and prevent mats. Regular grooming with the right pet shampoo helps distribute natural oils, keeping their coat shiny and their skin healthy. Additionally, pay attention to their ears and paws, as German Shepherds are prone to ear infections and paw issues.
7. Socialization and Interaction
Socialization is an important part of a German Shepherd’s development. While they are naturally protective and loyal, it’s vital to expose them to different environments, people, and other animals, especially when they’re young. Proper socialization helps prevent aggressive behaviors and anxiety, contributing to a happier and healthier puppy.
It’s important to create positive experiences with other dogs and people, whether through controlled playdates, obedience classes, or visits to dog parks. Proper socialization will not only make them well-adjusted pets but also reduce the stress they might experience in unfamiliar situations, improving their quality of life.
Health Issues that May Impact the Lifespan of a German Shepherd
While they can live up to 10 to 12 years, there are other factors that affect the German Shepherd lifespan. Smaller breeds have a higher life expectancy than the German Shepherd (and other larger dogs) and are less likely to die from health complications such as cancers. The breed is susceptible to other conditions such as:
- Inability to stand
- Blood clotting
- Multiskeletal disorders
- Heart disease
- Dental disease
- Bloat
- Obesity
- Otitis externa (ear infection)
A study in the UK identified the inability to stand and musculoskeletal disorders as the leading causes of death among German Shepherds.
Understanding the Signs of Aging in German Shepherds
As German Shepherds age, they may begin to show signs of aging such as slower movement, difficulty climbing stairs, or changes in appetite. Being proactive in recognizing these signs can help address potential health issues early, allowing for better management and a higher quality of life.
Pay attention to changes in your dog’s behavior, such as increased irritability or difficulty with tasks that were previously easy for them. Regular visits to the vet become increasingly important as they age to ensure early detection of arthritis, heart conditions, or other common ailments in older dogs.
Final Remarks on German Shepherds
German Shepherds are trainable, lovable, and loyal. Some serve as guides or military dogs, whereas others are good companions. Unfortunately, the German Shepherd breed has a shorter life cycle than other breeds. The average lifespan ranges between 7 and 10 years, which is relatively shorter than smaller dogs. German Shepherds can quickly become obese. and they are highly susceptible to musculoskeletal issues.
Larger dogs are more vulnerable to cancer as compared to smaller breeds. Maintaining your German Shepherd on a healthy diet and engaging them in exercise to prolong their life is essential. Additional issues that caregivers/owners should pay attention to include brushing the dog’s teeth daily, taking them to the vet for vaccination and other check-ups, seeking veterinary care whenever there’s a health problem, and proper hygiene.
Reconsidering the above recommendations will prolong the life of a German Shepherd and give them a happy life. It is essential to provide them with attention and lots of love.
At Vetericyn, we offer pet care products that would help prolong the life of your German Shepherd. These include dog supplements, wound care, skin care, and eye and ear care products. The products are top tier, tried, and tested. Contact us and embark on a prolonged and enjoyable journey with your pet.
Reviewed by Dr. Kathy Adamson
Dr. Kathy Adamson earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine.
She completed a one-year small animal medicine and surgery internship at the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine. Alongside her studies, Kathy worked in a research lab, contributing as an author and co-author to various journal articles.
She has also pursued medical writing and editing certification through the University of Chicago Graham School. Currently, she runs KMA Veterinary & Medical Writing, a freelance medical writing company, serves as the Digital Content Manager for the Greater Chicago Area Chapter of the American Medical Writers Association, is a member of the AMWA Communications Committee, and enjoys writing about healthcare topics for people and their cherished pets.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathyadamsondvm/
Sources:
- PawTracks. What to know about the average German Shepherd lifespan. https://www.pawtracks.com/dogs/german-shepherd-lifespan/
- Animal League. Benefits of Spaying and Neutering your Pets. https://www.animalleague.org/get-involved/spay-usa/benefits-spaying-or-neutering-pets/
- Dog Advisory Council. How Long Do German Shepherds Live? 5 Signs Your GSD Life Is Ending. https://dogadvisorycouncil.com/how-long-do-german-shepherds-live/
