What is the life expectancy of a GSD?
Most lines of GSDs will live to between 10-13 years of age. 11-12 years is probably a very reasonable expectation. A GSD becomes “middle-aged” between 5-7 years old, and is generally considered “geriatric” at about 10. Their food intake and exercise and nutrition needs may change over this period of time. They may begin to develop stiffness in their joints (much like people do as they get older). Healthy teeth are important as bacteria from decaying teeth can affect the health of the dog. I talk to some breeders who tell me to not look at GSDs from American bloodlines. I talk to some who tell me that I shouldn’t look at GSDs from German bloodlines. Who’s right and who’s wrong? Both and neither. There are some fairly distinct general differences between the two lines, and there are some breeders trying to breed for “the best of both worlds” by crossing American lines with German. The best thing you can do is determine what you want from your German Shepherd Dog and want to do with him/h
