How to Care for a Long Haired German Shepherd

How to look after a Long-Haired German Shepherd

The iconic long-haired German Shepherd is loved by dog owners and breeders all over the world for its gorgeous long coat and striking appearance. Long hair on German Shepherds is a result of a recessive genetic trait, though it is less common than the short coat.

The long-haired coat in German Shepherds is caused by a recessive gene. Both parent dogs must carry this gene for there to be a chance of producing long-haired puppies. If both parents carry the gene, even if they both have short coats, there is a possibility of some pups in the litter having long hair. While breeders can predict the likelihood of producing long-haired puppies based on the genetic history of the parents, it is not always guaranteed.

Long-haired German Shepherds have become popular among dog owners who appreciate their striking appearance and fluffy coat, though the short-haired variety remains more common, particularly for working roles.

If you’re lucky enough to have one of these beautiful canines or you’re thinking of adopting one, make sure you know a lot about them in advance so you’re prepared and equipped to look after them. This guide will provide you with a quick profile of the long-haired German Shepherd and outline some of the common concerns, issues or potential problems you’ll need to consider.

How big is a full-grown German Shepherd?

The long-haired German Shepherd is surprisingly very similar to its short-haired counterpart, despite looking quite different. They share the same general body shape and size, which means that you won’t have to worry about making any extra space. The average height of a long-haired German Shepherd is 55-65cm and they usually weigh in at 22-40kg, making it a medium size dog that would fit well into any average size home.

Where do long-haired German Shepherds come from?

Long-haired German Shepherds carry the recessive long-haired gene from both their parents. Although the American Kennel Club does not allow long-haired German Shepherds to compete in conformation shows due to breed standards that favour the short coat, they are recognised by other organisations, including the UK Kennel Club.

Do long haired German Shepherds have an undercoat?

Yes, long-haired German Shepherds do have an undercoat, similar to their short-haired relatives. However, the undercoat of a long-haired German Shepherd is often less dense or softer than that of a short-haired German Shepherd.

Long-haired German Shepherds can be more susceptible to becoming wet and cold in rainy or wet conditions because their longer coat absorbs water and can be slower to dry. While their long fur provides insulation in cold weather, they may struggle more in heavy rain compared to short-haired German Shepherds. However, they are generally still resilient to cold weather in the same way as short-haired German Shepherds, provided they are kept dry.

Long Haired German Shepherd temperament

 The long-haired German Shepherd retains the intelligence, trainability, and obedience that the breed is known for. While individual temperaments can vary, long-haired German Shepherds generally share the same loyal and protective traits as their short-haired relatives. However, some owners report that long-haired German Shepherds may exhibit a slightly calmer and more affectionate temperament, though this is subjective and can depend on individual dogs.

Long-haired German Shepherds are sociable, affectionate, and enjoy the company of their human family members. Their love for human interaction makes them great companions and ideal family pets, as they tend to form strong bonds with their owners. These dogs are typically gentle with children and other pets, thanks to their playful and soft-natured personality.

Like all German Shepherds, long-haired German Shepherds are an active and energetic breed. They are highly intelligent and need both mental stimulation and physical exercise to stay happy and healthy. Regular exercise; such as daily walks, runs, or interactive play, is essential to burn off their energy and prevent destructive behaviours (like chewing shoes or furniture). If not properly exercised, they may develop behavioural problems or become anxious.

While long-haired German Shepherds can be a great fit for a variety of households, it's important to remember that they are working dogs at heart, bred to perform tasks that require focus and energy. Ensuring they have plenty of room to exercise and opportunities for mental engagement is crucial.

German Shepherd health issues

Long-haired German Shepherds share many of the same health concerns as their short-haired counterparts, including joint issues like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These conditions are hereditary and can lead to arthritis and pain as the dog ages. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help manage symptoms and prevent further complications. Other common health problems include degenerative myelopathy (DM), a progressive spinal disease, and gastrointestinal issues like gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), which can be life-threatening. Proper feeding habits, such as smaller, more frequent meals, and weight management are key to preventing these issues and promoting overall health. German Shepherds are also prone to eye conditions such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, so regular eye exams are recommended.

In addition to hereditary health problems, long-haired German Shepherds require consistent grooming to maintain a healthy coat and skin. Their dense, long fur can trap dirt and moisture, leading to skin infections, hot spots, and matting. Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils and prevents these issues. Grooming also promotes blood circulation and reduces the risk of dry or irritated skin. While a well-balanced diet is essential to maintaining their health and managing weight, regular exercise is also crucial for their overall well-being. By keeping up with their physical, dietary, and grooming needs, you can help ensure your long-haired German Shepherd remains active, healthy, and happy for years to come.

How much exercise does a German Shepherd need?

Long-haired German Shepherds, like all German Shepherds, are active and energetic dogs that require 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities like walking, running, hiking, and playing fetch, and need both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Incorporating training or games like frisbee can help keep them engaged.

While they are energetic, German Shepherds also enjoy relaxing with their family, so balancing exercise with downtime is key. Owners should ensure they have the time and space for regular physical activity and mental engagement to prevent boredom and behavioural issues. For active individuals, a long-haired German Shepherd can be an excellent companion.

Living requirements

Long-haired German Shepherds are highly social dogs that form strong bonds with their families. They are emotionally dependent on human interaction and can experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. This makes them a better fit for owners who are home often or have a family member available to provide attention and care when they’re not around. If you tend to be away from home a lot, you may need to arrange for dog sitters or friends to help meet your dog's social needs.

These dogs are well-suited to active families who enjoy outdoor activities, as long-haired German Shepherds thrive when they get regular exercise. They love to accompany their owners on walks, runs, or hikes and are happy to relax with the family after a good workout. While they can live indoors comfortably, it's important to provide them with enough space for both relaxation and play. As medium-sized dogs, they need a designated area for their bed, food, and toys, and may become hyperactive if they don't get enough physical or mental stimulation. Early training is key to preventing unwanted behaviours and ensuring they respect boundaries within the home.

How to groom a long-haired German Shepherd

Long-haired German Shepherds require more grooming than their short-haired counterparts due to their dense, flowing coat. Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting, tangling, and excessive shedding. If left unchecked, their long hair can become matted and uncomfortable, leading to skin irritation or overheating, especially in warmer months. It’s recommended to brush your dog at least 2-3 times a week, and more frequently during shedding seasons (typically spring and autumn). This helps remove loose fur, reduces the risk of matting, and ensures your dog’s coat stays healthy and shiny. For at-home grooming between professional appointments, we recommend that pet owners use a rake, long pin slicker brush, and comb.

In addition to brushing, maintaining your dog's nails is important for overall health. Regular nail trimming prevents discomfort and potential health issues, such as difficulty walking or joint problems. If you're new to trimming dog nails, it’s a good idea to ask a groomer for guidance or use a specialised nail clipper for dogs to ensure you're doing it safely. 

Due to their heavy shedding, long-haired German Shepherd owners may require more frequent vacuuming to manage the amount of hair that collects around the house. Investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair can make this task easier. Keep lint rollers handy for cleaning your clothes before heading out, as their hair tends to stick to fabrics.

How often should you bathe a long-haired German Shepherd?

Long-haired German Shepherds don't require frequent baths. In fact, bathing them too often can strip their coat of the natural oils that keep it shiny and moisturised, potentially causing dry skin and a dull coat. Typically, a bath every 2 to 3 months is sufficient to keep your dog clean and healthy. However, there are exceptions. If your dog gets especially dirty, smells unpleasant, or develops fleas, you may need to bathe them more frequently. During wet or muddy weather, particularly in the winter, you might also find it necessary to bathe them more often to prevent dirt and moisture from building up in their coat.

When bathing your long-haired German Shepherd, it's important to use a dog-specific shampoo, preferably one formulated for sensitive skin, to avoid irritating their skin. Frequent washing with the wrong products can harm their skin and coat, so always choose a gentle, moisturising shampoo designed for dogs.

If you share our love for all pets and are considering enrolling in our dog grooming school, book a visit or download our brochure for more information. If you've already set up your own business, see how Groomarts can assist your business.