Long-Haired German Shepherd

The Long-Haired German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a muscular, solid build. Their frame is slightly elongated, and they are defined by their long, dense coat. They exude confidence, nobility, and alertness. The key characteristics of the breed are presented in the table below:

The history of the long-haired German Shepherd is closely tied to the history of the classic, short-haired German Shepherd. The breed’s founder, Captain Max von Stephanitz, set out at the end of the 19th century to create the ideal German working dog. He selected the best local herding dogs in Germany, focusing on their working abilities, intelligence, and endurance. The first registered German Shepherd was Horand von Grafrath in 1899, the same year the German Shepherd Dog Club (SV) was founded.

From the beginning, litters of German Shepherds occasionally produced puppies with longer coats. This was a natural manifestation of genetic diversity. However, for a long time, the breed standard—which focused primarily on working qualities and practicality—considered the long coat an undesirable trait, and sometimes even a fault. It was believed that an overly long coat could hinder the dog while working, collect dirt, and stay wet for longer, which was impractical for working dogs often operating in challenging weather conditions. As a result, long-haired individuals were often excluded from breeding programs.

Despite the official stance, many breed enthusiasts valued long-haired German Shepherds for their impressive looks and often noted their slightly softer and calmer temperament, though this was not a universally accepted fact. Enthusiasts continued to breed long-haired dogs, and over time, their popularity grew, especially as companions and show dogs.

The turning point came in 2010-2011, when the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the long-haired German Shepherd (Langstockhaar mit Unterwolle – long-haired with undercoat) as a separate coat variation within the German Shepherd breed standard. This was a major victory for supporters of the long-haired variety. An important condition for recognition was the presence of a well-developed undercoat, as dogs with very long, soft coats without an undercoat (known as “Langhaar” – simply long-haired) are still considered a fault due to the coat’s lesser practicality and protective qualities. Thus, today’s long-haired German Shepherd is not just a dog with a long coat, but an animal that meets the strict requirements of the breed standard, just like its short-haired relative.

In general, the Long-Haired German Shepherd meets the same criteria of the FCI Standard No. 166 as the short-haired variety, with the exception of the coat description. It is a medium-sized dog—strong, muscular, with harmonious proportions and a noble posture.

General Appearance and Proportions: Like the short-haired variety, the long-haired German Shepherd has a slightly elongated frame, where the body length exceeds the height at the withers by approximately 10-17%. The height at the withers for males is 23.5-25.5 inches, and for females, it is 21.5-23.5 inches. Their weight is 65-90 pounds for males and 48.5-70.5 pounds for females.

Head, Eyes, Ears: The head is wedge-shaped and proportional to the body. The eyes are almond-shaped and as dark as possible, giving the dog an intelligent and confident expression. The ears are medium-sized, erect, and set high, pointing forward.

Body and Limbs: They have a strong body with a straight topline, a well-developed wither, and a slightly sloping croup. Their limbs are strong and muscular, with correct angulation that allows for the breed’s characteristic sweeping and tireless trotting movement.

Coat (Langstockhaar mit Unterwolle): This is the key difference. The Long-Haired German Shepherd has a long, dense, and softer outer coat than the short-haired type. It lies close to the body and is supported by a well-developed, thick undercoat. The presence of an undercoat is mandatory. The coat forms characteristic features, including:

• A “mane” on the neck, which can be quite lush.
• Longer hair on the backs of the ears and the rear surfaces of the forelegs, which create a feathered appearance.
• Lush “pants” on the back of the hind legs.
• A very thick and bushy tail that hangs down and reaches at least the hock.

The coat is shorter on the head, the inside of the ears, the front of the legs, and the paws. The coat should not be excessively long, curly, wavy, or form a part on the back. An overly soft, silky, or cottony coat, as well as the absence of an undercoat, are considered faults.

Color: The acceptable colors are the same as for the short-haired variety: Saddle back (black and tan): With markings ranging from rich reddish-brown to tan. The black “saddle” covers the back, sides, and the top of the tail. A black mask on the face is required. Solid black: A completely black coat. Small white markings on the chest are possible but undesirable. Sable gray (wolf gray) or sable red: Each individual guard hair has alternating light and dark zones. A black mask is required. White is not recognized by the FCI standard for the German Shepherd; white-colored dogs belong to a separate breed—the White Swiss Shepherd Dog.

According to the FCI standard, the character and temperament of the long-haired German Shepherd must be the same as the short-haired variety. This means the dog should be well-balanced, with strong nerves, self-assured, completely natural, alert, and obedient. They should display courage, a fighting instinct, and a firm character to be capable of serving as a companion, protector, guard, service, or herding dog.

However, some owners and breeders believe that long-haired German Shepherds can be a bit softer, calmer, and more sensitive than their short-haired counterparts, especially those from show lines. They might be more family-oriented and less prone to dominance, although this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule and largely depends on the specific breeding line and individual upbringing. In any case, they are incredibly intelligent and devoted dogs who form a strong bond with their family. This is similar to other active herding breeds, such as the Mudi, who also thrive when they have a job to do.

• Intelligence and Trainability: Their high level of intelligence allows them to quickly learn commands and complex skills. They are eager to please their owner and enjoy mental tasks.
• Loyalty: They are extremely loyal to their family and are ready to protect them.
• Courage and Confidence: They should not be timid or aggressive without reason.
• Protective Instinct: They are natural guardians but require proper socialization to exhibit these qualities appropriately.
• High Energy: Like all German Shepherds, the long-haired variety needs significant physical and mental exercise. They need a “job” or active engagement to be happy.
• Sociability: They usually get along well with children in their family if properly socialized. They can coexist with other animals, especially if raised together, but supervision is necessary.

It’s important to remember that the Long-Haired German Shepherd is a serious dog that requires an experienced and responsible owner who is willing to dedicate time to its training, socialization, and ensuring it gets the exercise it needs. Left without attention and a purpose, they can develop undesirable traits.

Long-haired German Shepherds are prone to the same genetic diseases as their short-haired counterparts. Responsible breeding, with mandatory health testing of parent dogs, helps reduce the risk of these issues. Their average lifespan is 9-13 years.

Primary Hereditary Conditions:

• Hip Dysplasia (HD) and Elbow Dysplasia (ED): The most common orthopedic problems in the breed. This is an improper development of the joints that leads to pain, arthritis, and lameness. X-ray screening of parents is mandatory for breeding approval.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): A neurological disease that causes gradual paralysis of the hind legs. A genetic test is available.
• Bloat and Gastric Torsion (GDV): A life-threatening condition, more common in large, deep-chested breeds.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): A digestive disorder caused by insufficient enzyme production.
• Allergies: Food and atopic (environmental) allergies, which manifest as itching and skin problems.

Specific Concerns for the Long-Haired Variety:

• Skin Issues: The long, dense coat can contribute to skin infections (bacterial, fungal), such as “hot spots” (acute moist dermatitis), especially if the coat does not dry properly or if mats form. It’s crucial to keep the skin clean and dry.
• Overheating: In hot weather, long-haired dogs are more prone to overheating. They must be provided with a cool place, access to water, and should avoid intense exercise in the heat.
• Parasites: Fleas and ticks can hide more easily in a long coat, so thorough and regular parasite prevention is necessary.
• Eye Diseases: Like the short-haired variety, they can suffer from pannus (chronic superficial keratitis) and other eye problems. Regular check-ups with a veterinary ophthalmologist are important.

Prevention:

• Choose a puppy from responsible breeders who test the parent dogs.
• Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and deworming.
• A balanced diet with high-quality food.
• Weight management, especially during the growth period.
• Adequate physical activity that does not strain a young dog’s joints.
• Thorough grooming of the long coat to prevent skin issues.

Caring for the luxurious coat of a Long-Haired German Shepherd is one of the most important and demanding aspects of owning this breed. Without regular and proper grooming, the coat can become matted, causing discomfort, skin irritation, and leading to dermatological problems. This level of meticulous care is also characteristic of other long-haired herding breeds, such as the Tervuren.

• Brushing Frequency: The Long-Haired German Shepherd should be brushed at least 3-4 times per week, and ideally every day or every other day, especially during periods of heavy shedding (spring and fall). This helps remove dead undercoat, prevent mats, and distribute natural skin oils throughout the coat, giving it a healthy shine.
• Grooming Tools:
  • Slicker brush: Good for detangling small mats and removing dead hair.
  • Metal comb with varying tooth spacing: For finishing the coat and checking for any remaining tangles after using a brush.
  • Undercoat rake or a Furminator: Highly effective for removing large amounts of dead undercoat during shedding season. Use with caution to avoid damaging the outer coat and skin.
  • Mat cutter (dematter): For safely removing mats that can’t be brushed out.
  • Blunt-end scissors: For trimming hair around the paw pads and in sensitive areas for hygiene.
• Brushing Technique: Brush the coat layer by layer, starting from the skin, in the direction of hair growth. Pay special attention to areas where mats most often form: behind the ears, on the neck (“mane”), under the armpits, on the “pants,” and on the tail.
• Bathing: Bathe your Long-Haired German Shepherd only when necessary, typically 1-2 times every few months, or if the dog gets very dirty. Frequent bathing can dry out the skin and coat. Use high-quality shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for long-haired dogs. Rinse all products thoroughly and dry the coat well with a towel and a hairdryer (on a low or medium setting) to prevent chilling and the development of skin issues from dampness.
• Shedding: Be prepared for a significant amount of hair in the house, especially during seasonal sheds. Regular brushing will help minimize this problem.
• Professional Grooming: If you are unsure of your abilities or don’t have enough time, you can periodically seek out a professional groomer who can help maintain your pet’s coat in perfect condition.

Besides coat care, don’t forget about regular cleaning of their ears, eyes, and teeth, and trimming their nails, just as you would for any other dog.

The principles of training, raising, and socializing a Long-Haired German Shepherd are generally no different from those applied to its short-haired relatives. They are extremely intelligent dogs who are eager to please their owner and have great potential for training.

• Early Socialization: This is critically important for developing a well-balanced and confident dog. From puppyhood, introduce them to a variety of people, sounds, places, and other animals (under supervision).
• Positive Reinforcement: They respond best to methods based on praise, treats, and play motivation. Avoid harshness and punishment.
• Consistency and Patience: Be consistent in your commands and patient during the learning process.
• Mental Stimulation: Due to their high intelligence, they need regular mental challenges: learning new commands and tricks, puzzle games, and engaging in canine sports (obedience, agility, scent work).
• Training Classes: It’s recommended to take at least a basic obedience class with an experienced instructor. For those planning more serious work or sports, specialized programs are available.

You are unlikely to instill movie-star-like qualities in your pet on your own without proper experience. Consulting a professional can help unlock your dog’s potential and build a harmonious relationship.

The diet of a Long-Haired German Shepherd should be balanced, high-quality, and appropriate for its age, size, activity level, and individual needs. The main component is high-quality animal protein (meat, poultry, fish).

• Ready-Made Food: Choose premium, super-premium, or holistic-grade foods for large dog breeds. Some manufacturers offer formulas enriched with ingredients for skin and coat health (e.g., Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, biotin, zinc), which can be beneficial for long-haired dogs.
• Natural Feeding: Requires careful planning and consultation with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure a complete set of necessary nutrients. This diet includes lean meat, organs, grains (buckwheat, rice), vegetables, and dairy products.
• Avoid Harmful Products: Starchy and flour-based products in large quantities should be limited, as they can be difficult to digest and contribute to weight gain. The breed is prone to bloat and obesity, so it’s important not to overfeed and to control portion sizes.
• Fats: They need a moderate amount of high-quality fats for energy and coat health.
• Feeding Schedule: Adult dogs are typically fed twice a day. Always ensure they have free access to fresh, clean water.

A balanced food composition is a necessary condition for your pet’s health and beauty. If you have any doubts about their diet, especially if there are signs of allergies or skin problems, consult a vet.

• The Long-Hair Gene: The long coat in German Shepherds is caused by a recessive gene. This means that two short-haired parents who carry this gene can produce long-haired puppies.
• The “Forbidden Fruit”: For a long time, long-haired Shepherds were not officially recognized and were considered a “breeding fault” in many countries, despite their popularity among enthusiasts.
• Two Types of Long Hair: It’s important to differentiate between “Langstockhaar mit Unterwolle” (long-haired with undercoat), which is recognized by the FCI, and “Langhaar” (simply long-haired without a proper undercoat), which is still considered undesirable due to the coat’s lesser protective function.
• Visual Difference: Besides the obvious length of the coat, long-haired German Shepherds often look a bit more massive and “fluffier” than their short-haired counterparts, though their skeletal structure is the same.
• Popularity in Show Rings: After official recognition, long-haired German Shepherds became very popular in dog shows thanks to their striking appearance.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Although the undercoat provides good protection, a very thick, long coat can make them more sensitive to hot weather compared to short-haired Shepherds.

Is a Long-Haired German Shepherd harder to care for than a short-haired one?
Yes, significantly harder. The long coat requires regular, almost daily brushing to prevent mats and maintain skin health. The short-haired variety needs less intensive grooming.

Do Long-Haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired ones?
Both varieties shed heavily, especially seasonally. The amount of hair might seem greater in long-haired dogs due to the length of individual hairs, but the intensity of the undercoat shedding is similar. The main difference is the need for more meticulous brushing of the long coat.

Does the temperament of a Long-Haired German Shepherd differ from a short-haired one?
The official breed standard requires the same temperament for both varieties. However, some owners and breeders note that long-haired individuals can be a bit softer, calmer, and more sensitive. This is not a rule and depends on the breeding line and individual traits.

Do Long-Haired German Shepherds get cold in the winter?
Thanks to their thick, long coat and well-developed undercoat, they handle cold weather well, provided the coat is dry and well-maintained. A wet or matted coat loses its thermal insulation properties.

Can you shave a Long-Haired German Shepherd?
Shaving is generally not recommended, as it can disrupt the natural structure of the coat and its protective qualities. Hygienic trimming around the paws, ears, and sensitive areas is acceptable. If a significant reduction in coat is necessary (e.g., for medical reasons or severe matting), it’s best to consult a professional groomer who understands the specifics of the breed.