How to Tell a Purebred German Shepherd

1. Size. German Shepherds are large dogs, with males standing 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 75 to 90 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 22 to 24 inches tall and weighing 65 to 75 pounds.

2. Coat. German Shepherds have a double coat that consists of a dense undercoat and a longer, harsher outer coat. The outer coat is typically black or sable, with white, tan, or cream markings. The length of the outer coat varies, with some dogs having short hair and others having long hair.

3. Head. German Shepherds have a broad, wedge-shaped head with a pronounced stop (the indentation between the eyes). The eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown, and the ears are erect and triangular.

4. Body. German Shepherds have a muscular, well-proportioned body with a strong back, broad chest, and slightly sloping topline. The tail is long and bushy.

5. Temperament. German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and protective dogs. They are also very active and need plenty of exercise.

Here are some additional things to look for when trying to tell if a German Shepherd is purebred:

* The dog should have a pedigree that traces back to at least three generations of purebred German Shepherds.

* The dog should be registered with a recognized kennel club, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC).

* The dog should meet the breed standard for German Shepherds, as set forth by the AKC or UKC.

If you are considering getting a German Shepherd, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are getting a purebred dog from a reputable breeder.