Long Haired German Shepherds -12 Must Know Facts

With their stunning coats and fierce loyalty, Long Haired German Shepherds are an eye-catching and noble variation of the beloved German Shepherd breed. But beyond their looks lies a world of fascinating traits and responsibilities that every dog lover should know before bringing one home.

Whether you’re a prospective owner or simply intrigued by this beautiful breed, here are 12 essential things you should know about the Long Haired German Shepherd.

1. Rare Long-Hair Gene

The long coat on a German Shepherd isn’t just a fluke—it’s the result of a recessive gene. This means both parent dogs must carry the gene for their puppies to be born with long hair. That’s why Long Haired German Shepherds are less common than their short-haired counterparts.

Historically, this coat type was considered undesirable by kennel clubs, but today, more people are embracing their unique beauty.

Key Point: The long-haired gene doesn’t affect the dog’s health or personality—only their appearance.

2. They Are Incredibly Gorgeous

With flowing, feathered fur around their ears, tail, belly, and chest, Long Haired GSDs look elegant, majestic, and powerful. Their soft, silky coats give them a show-stopping look that makes them stand out in public, on Instagram, or even in your backyard.

Unlike short-haired GSDs, their fluffiness gives off a warmer, softer vibe—which many owners love.

Pro Tip: They look especially stunning in natural light—great for photos!

3. Intelligent and Trainable

Don’t let the fluff fool you. Long Haired German Shepherds are just as smart, focused, and obedient as standard GSDs. They’re quick learners and love being challenged mentally.

This breed excels in training, especially when rewarded with praise, play, or treats. They do well in:

• Obedience training
• Agility courses
• Tracking and protection work
• Therapy and service roles

Tip: Early training and socialization are crucial to help shape a confident, well-mannered dog.

4. Their Coat Requires High-Maintenance Grooming

That gorgeous long coat doesn’t take care of itself. Long Haired German Shepherds shed year-round, with heavier blowouts during spring and fall. Regular brushing (3–5 times a week) is essential to avoid tangles, mats, and excessive shedding around your home.

Invest in quality grooming tools like:

• Slicker brushes
• Undercoat rakes
• Deshedding tools

Bonus Tip: Monthly baths and nail trims help keep them looking (and smelling) fresh.

5. They Handle Cold Weather Better Than Heat

Thanks to their thick, plush coats, Long Haired GSDs are naturally more suited to cool or cold climates. They can play in the snow and stay cozy outdoors longer than short-haired breeds.

However, hot weather can be dangerous. Overheating is a serious risk, so it’s crucial to:

• Avoid midday walks
• Provide shaded rest areas
• Keep them hydrated

Summer Tip: Consider trimming fur between paw pads for comfort, but never fully shave their coat—it protects from both heat and cold.

6. They Are Family Dogs

Known for their deep loyalty and gentle nature, long-haired German Shepherds are wonderful companions for families. They often bond strongly with their human pack and are protective without being aggressive.

With proper training, they are:

• Excellent with children
• Friendly with other pets (if introduced properly)
• Watchful over the home

Parent Tip: Always supervise young children with any dog breed, and teach kids how to interact respectfully.

7. Naturally Gentle Protectors

Long Haired GSDs have a strong guarding instinct—but they’re not aggressive by nature. They’re naturally suspicious of strangers, which makes them excellent watchdogs. However, a well-socialized dog will remain calm, observant, and confident rather than reactive.

This trait makes them suitable for roles like:

• Personal protection
• Security work
• Service or assistance dogs

Key Advice: Avoid harsh punishment—it can damage their trust. Use calm authority and clear boundaries.

8. Not Officially Recognized

While Long Haired German Shepherds are gaining popularity, some traditional dog show circuits, like the American Kennel Club (AKC), still don’t accept them for conformation events. The standard calls for a medium-length double coat—which disqualifies the long-haired variety.

But don’t worry—they can still compete in:

• Agility
• Obedience
• Schutzhund (protection sport)
• Search & rescue trials

Fun Fact: In Germany and parts of Europe, they’re more widely accepted and even celebrated.

9. High-Quality Diet Needed

Feeding your Long Haired GSD the right diet supports their coat, joints, muscles, and energy levels. A high-protein, nutrient-rich diet is essential—especially for large breeds prone to hip dysplasia and joint issues.

Look for foods that include:

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
• Glucosamine and chondroitin

Tip: Regular vet check-ups and weight management are key to their long-term health.

10. Daily Exercise Required

Long Haired German Shepherds aren’t built for lazy days. As a working breed, they need 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise to stay balanced. Without it, they can become bored, anxious, or destructive.

They thrive on activities like long walks, games of fetch, or hikes—anything that keeps their body moving. Mental stimulation is just as important, so training, scent games, and puzzle toys go a long way in keeping them happy and well-behaved.

Pro Tip: Mental work tires them out more than physical alone. Teach new tricks often!

11. Common GSD Health Issues

Long-haired German Shepherds may look a bit different, but when it comes to health, they face many of the same risks as standard GSDs. While generally healthy, they can still be prone to:

• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia – painful joint conditions that can affect mobility
• Degenerative Myelopathy – a serious spinal issue seen in older dogs
• Allergies – skin and food sensitivities are not uncommon
• Bloat (Gastric Torsion) – a life-threatening condition requiring urgent care

The good news? A healthy lifestyle, strong genetics, and regular vet checkups can go a long way in preventing or managing these issues. Stay proactive, and your pup can enjoy a long, active life by your side.

12. Most Loyal Companion

When a Long-Haired German Shepherd bonds with you, it’s unbreakable. These dogs are incredibly affectionate, emotionally in tune, and happiest when they’re part of the family action—whether it’s a walk, a game, or just relaxing by your side.

They’re more than pets—they’re devoted partners, faithful guardians, and lifelong best friends. With love, guidance, and care, they’ll give you loyalty, protection, and companionship beyond measure.

Warning: They may follow you from room to room—even into the bathroom!

History & Origin of Long Haired German Shepherds

Long-haired German Shepherds come from the same bloodline as standard GSDs, developed in Germany in the late 1800s. Their long coat is due to a recessive gene and was once seen as a flaw for working dogs.

Though not always accepted in show rings, they’ve gained popularity for their beauty, loyalty, and gentle nature.

Lifespan & Life Stages

The Long Haired German Shepherd typically lives 9 to 13 years. With proper care, regular vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle, some may live even longer. Their lifespan is similar to that of standard German Shepherds.

• Genetics & breeding quality
• Diet & exercise
• Preventative healthcare
• Weight management

Life Stage	Age Range	What to Expect
Puppyhood	0–6 months	Rapid growth, teething, basic training, high energy.
Adolescence	6–18 months	Testing boundaries, sexual maturity, higher activity.
Young Adult	1.5–3 years	Peak strength, mental sharpness, continued training.
Mature Adult	3–7 years	Settled temperament, full-size coat, loyal and focused.
Senior Years	7+ years	Slower pace, joint care needed, watch for health signs.

Tips for a Longer & Healthier Life:

• Feed a balanced, high-quality diet
• Maintain a consistent exercise routine
• Schedule regular vet visits & dental checkups
• Monitor for joint issues & mobility changes
• Keep them mentally stimulated with toys and training

Long Haired vs Standard GSD

FEATURE	LONG HAIRED GERMAN SHEPHERD	Standard (Short Haired) German Shepherd
Coat Type	Long, flowing outer coat with no undercoat (in many cases)	Dense double coat with harsh outer layer
Shedding	Sheds year-round, but slightly less during blowout seasons	Heavy seasonal shedding with undercoat
Grooming Needs	High – requires frequent brushing (3–5x/week)	Moderate – brushing 1–2x/week usually enough
Appearance	Elegant, feathered fur; softer silhouette	More rugged, working-dog look
Weather Tolerance	Less water-resistant and less suited for harsh weather	Excellent protection against cold and wet climates
AKC Show Eligibility	Not eligible due to coat length	Eligible for conformation shows
Popularity	Less common; seen as a niche variation	Very common; preferred for working roles
Temperament	Equally loyal, intelligent, and trainable	Same temperament – intelligent, loyal, alert
Working Ability	More often companion or sport dog	Preferred for police, military, and service work
Lifespan	9–13 years	9–13 years

Pros of Long Haired GSDs

BENEFIT	DESCRIPTION
Highly Intelligent	Quick learners that excel in obedience and training.
Loyal and Loving	Form deep, emotional bonds with their families.
Great Family Dogs	Gentle and protective with kids and other pets when socialized.
Active & Versatile	Excel in various roles: service, agility, protection, or companionship.
Stunning Appearance	Beautiful, flowing coats that make them stand out.
Cold Weather Friendly	Thrive in colder climates thanks to their thick double coat.

Cons of Long Haired GSDs

DRAWBACK	DESCRIPTION
High Grooming Needs	Require frequent brushing (3–5x/week) to prevent mats and manage shedding.
Sensitive to Heat	Can overheat in warm climates—need extra care in summer.
Costly Maintenance	Expenses add up: grooming tools, premium food, vet care.
Health Concerns	Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and other large-breed issues.
Not AKC Show Eligible	Disqualified from some dog shows due to coat length.
Needs Daily Exercise	Require 1–2 hours of physical and mental stimulation daily.

FAQ: