
The Fluffy German Shepherd is a unique breed that's gained popularity in recent years. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, requiring regular grooming.
Their thick coat is one of their defining characteristics. This double coat can be either straight or wavy, and it sheds heavily, especially during shedding season.
Fluffy German Shepherds are intelligent and loyal, making them great family pets. They are highly trainable and thrive on mental and physical stimulation.
They are naturally protective of their family, but they are not generally aggressive. With proper socialization and training, they can become wonderful companions.
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Temperament and Personality
Long-haired German Shepherds are affectionate with their families, but some may be reserved and stoic, enjoying time alone or away from others.
They display excellent patience around children and make good family dogs, but some individuals can be reactive and suspicious around strangers.
This breed is not for a low-energy household, as they require lots of stimulation to keep their minds active.
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Temperament

German Shepherds are affectionate with their humans, but many are reserved and stoic, often enjoying time alone or away from family members.
They make good family dogs and display excellent patience around children, but some can be reactive and suspicious around strangers.
This breed is not suitable for a low-energy household, as they require lots of stimulation to keep them engaged and happy.
It's essential to provide your German Shepherd with plenty of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Some German Shepherds are not good with other dogs, so socialization is crucial to ensure they interact well with other canines.
Giving your German Shepherd lots of exercise and mental stimulation can help them become confident and well-adjusted members of your family.
Other Dog Breeds to Consider
If you're looking for a dog with a similar temperament to a German Shepherd, consider breeds like the Corgi German Shepherd, which offers a unique blend of characteristics.

All dogs, regardless of breed, need high-quality dog food and regular veterinary care to stay healthy.
Their gorgeous hair, plucky, light-hearted temperament, and enthusiastic attitude make them a great alternative to a purebred German Shepherd.
Dogs like the Corgi German Shepherd require large to extra large supplies, so be sure to plan ahead.
If you want a dog that looks like a German Shepherd but is a different breed, there are plenty of options to consider.
They need plenty of love, toys, and supplies to thrive, just like any other dog.
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Physical Characteristics
A fluffy German Shepherd's physical characteristics are truly unique.
Their coats are long and luxurious, with most not having an undercoat, but some bred to have them. These undercoat variants are large and poofy.
The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd.
Here's a breakdown of their size:
Images
Fluffy German Shepherds are a sight to behold, with over 1,700 stock photos and images available to browse. They often have long hair and can be isolated on green backgrounds.

Some German Shepherds have black noses, while others have brown eyes. Their coats can range in color, including black and red.
Happy German Shepherds can be found running through parks or lying on green grass. They often have flowers or other objects surrounding them.
German Shepherd puppies can be isolated on white backgrounds, showcasing their cute features. They're often surrounded by toys or other objects.
German Shepherds come in a variety of settings, from mountains to forests. They can be found running, playing, or simply enjoying the scenery with their owners.
In some cases, German Shepherds are portrayed as serious breeds, with close-up portraits showcasing their muzzles. They can also be depicted in action, running or jumping through various environments.
German Shepherds can be found in a range of environments, from snowy winter forests to autumn fields. They often have toys or objects in their mouths, showcasing their playful nature.
Overall, German Shepherds are a versatile breed that can be found in many different settings and scenarios.
All About Coat

The coat of a German Shepherd is one of its most distinctive features. A long-haired German Shepherd has a luxurious and abundant coat that's the result of a recessive gene. This gene manifests as a thicker topcoat with less undercoat, which means they shed less than their short-haired counterparts.
Their coats come in a variety of colors, including black and tan, black and cream, and bi-color/bi-black. Most long-haired German Shepherds have a double coat, but some are bred to have an undercoat.
The standard for the long coat is described by the FCI as having guard hair that's long, soft, and not close-fitting, with tufts on the ears and legs, bushy trousers, and a bushy tail. The hair on the back side of the legs extends to the carpal joint or hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches.
Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat tangle-free and stimulate natural oil production. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can also boost coat health and give it that extra shine and volume.
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Here are some key facts about the coat of a long-haired German Shepherd:
- Tall: 22-26 inches
- Weight: 50-90 pounds
- Coat colors: black and tan, black and cream, bi-color/bi-black, and more
- Double coat: most have an undercoat, but some are bred to have one
- Shedding: less than short-haired German Shepherds, but still requires regular maintenance
- Grooming: regular brushing and gentle shampooing
Puppies and Breeding
If you're looking to bring a fluffy German Shepherd puppy into your life, understanding the basics of breeding is essential. Long-haired German Shepherds are a result of a recessive gene trait, meaning both parents must carry the gene for a puppy to inherit it.
To find a reputable breeder, befriending or following other owners of long-haired German Shepherds on social media can be a great way to get advice on where to find a good breeder. This can save you a lot of time and effort in your search.
Breeding one short-coated parent with one long-coated parent means a chance of getting both long and short-haired puppies if both parents carry the recessive gene. In extremely rare cases, two short-haired dogs who carry the trait can produce a long-haired puppy.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when it comes to German Shepherd breeding:
- Long hair is a recessive trait, meaning both parents must carry the gene for a puppy to inherit it.
- Two long-haired parents have a higher chance of producing a long-haired puppy.
- Two short-haired dogs who carry the trait can produce a long-haired puppy in extremely rare cases.
Understanding Puppy
German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent and trainable, making them loyal companions. They thrive on structure and clear communication, so start training early and be consistent.
German Shepherds are eager learners, so use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior. This breed excels with early socialization and training.
To keep your German Shepherd puppy healthy and happy, regular vet check-ups are essential. A balanced diet and plenty of exercises are also crucial for their overall well-being.
Here are some key characteristics of German Shepherd puppies:
- Intelligent and trainable
- Loyal companions
- Eager learners
These characteristics make German Shepherds ideal family members, offering companionship, security, and a unique personality. Their intelligence and versatility also make them suitable for various roles, from service dogs to loyal pets.
Genetics
Long hair in German Shepherds is a recessive trait, meaning both parents must carry the recessive gene for long hair to present in offspring.
If you're looking to breed long-haired German Shepherds, it's essential to find breeders who specialize in this trait and perform extensive gene and health testing on their breeding pairs.
Two long-haired parents have a higher chance of producing puppies with long hair, but it's not a guarantee.
In rare cases, two short-haired dogs who carry the trait can produce a long-haired puppy.
Breeding one short-coated parent with one long-coated parent means a chance of getting both long and short-haired puppies if both parents carry the recessive gene.
It's worth noting that accidental breeding of long-haired German Shepherds by short-haired breeders is extremely rare due to the rigorous testing involved.
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Finding a Puppy
Finding a puppy can be a thrilling experience, but it's essential to approach it with care. If you're looking for a long-haired puppy, your best bet is to find a reputable breeder.
Local animal shelters can be a great resource for finding a puppy, and it's a cost-effective option too. You might be able to find a long-haired Shepherd at a shelter, which can save you a significant amount of money.
Finding a breeder for these special dogs can be challenging, but it's worth the effort for the right puppy.
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Care and Maintenance
Fluffy German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition.
They shed less than short-haired German Shepherds, but still need regular maintenance, including regular brushing and grooming. Long-haired German Shepherds have a thicker topcoat than undercoat, so less shedding occurs.
To prevent matting and tangling, use a metal brush with lengthy teeth and a pin brush, and brush daily for several minutes. Be prepared to vacuum frequently to keep your surroundings clean and have a lint roller nearby to clean yourself before leaving the house.
Keep in mind that each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Pay attention to your fluffy German Shepherd's coat and consult with a dog's breeder or a professional groomer for advice and recommendations.
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Return
If you're considering bringing a long-haired German Shepherd into your family, be aware that their coat requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling.
Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling of the long hair.
Size

Long-haired German Shepherds are large dogs that stand between 22–26 inches tall and weigh around 50–90 pounds with some examples of the breed exceeding 100 pounds.
To give you a better idea of their size, males typically range from 24-26 inches tall and weigh between 65-90 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 22-24 inches tall and weighing between 50-70 pounds.
If you're planning to bring a long-haired German Shepherd into your home, keep in mind that they can grow quite large, so make sure you have enough space for them to move around comfortably.
Here's a breakdown of the expected size range for long-haired German Shepherds:
Health
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your long-haired German Shepherd. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common problems that can cause arthritis and mobility issues.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage these conditions. However, some dogs may still develop hip and elbow dysplasia despite proper care.

Patellar luxation is another issue that can occur in German Shepherds, where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be caused by a genetic predisposition or an injury.
Bloat is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in German Shepherds. It's essential to monitor your dog's eating habits and prevent overeating.
Some common health issues in long-haired German Shepherds include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Bloat
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Canine degenerative myelopathy (a spinal cord condition)
Grooming & Living Conditions
Long-haired German Shepherds shed a lot all year round, so be prepared for a lot of hair around the house. They'll need regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles, especially after molting, which can occur three weeks before fall or spring.
You'll need the right tools for the job, like a metal brush with lengthy teeth to get deep into the coat, and a pin brush to keep their coat shiny and clean. Brushing daily for several minutes will prevent knots in the future.
They'll also need to be brushed frequently to remove loose hair, especially during shedding seasons, which can be managed with a de-shedding tool. A lint roller will be your best friend when it comes to cleaning yourself after brushing.
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Keep in mind that long-haired German Shepherds are large and powerful, so great care should be exercised when purchasing them. Poorly bred dogs are more likely to exhibit anxiety and nervousness.
To prevent overguarding and resource-guarding behavior, socialize them early and have extensive obedience classes. They should be exposed to different elements, including loud noises and children, while with the family.
They like to be active and can get bored quickly, so ample exercise is necessary to keep them engaged. Keep them indoors due to their large coats that can be matted easily, and don't forget to brush their teeth to keep their teeth healthy and prevent periodontal disease.
Regular grooming is essential to prevent their fur from attracting dirt and mud, and getting stiff with dirt if not properly taken care of. Brushing their coat regularly will also help prevent matting and tangles.
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Breeder and Purchase
Finding a reputable breeder is the most likely way you'll find a long-haired German Shepherd.
You can also check local animal shelters, as you might find a long-haired Shepherd there, which can save you a lot of cash.
Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds year-round, but the majority of their puppies are short-haired, with occasional long-haired puppies available.
Puppies for Sale Locations
If you're looking for a long-haired German Shepherd puppy, you'll need to seek out breeders who specialize in this recessive gene trait.
You can find these breeders by befriending or following other owners of long-haired German Shepherds on social media, who can give you advice on where to find a good breeder.
Finding a reputable breeder is the most likely way you'll find a long-haired Shepherd, and it's your best-case scenario for finding one.
You can also try looking for long-haired German Shepherd puppies at local animal shelters, which can be a cost-effective option.
Price
The price of a Long-Haired German Shepherd can vary widely, ranging from as low as $700 to as high as $3,500.
The cost is mainly determined by the hair color rather than the long hair itself, so you may find that the price is similar to that of a standard German Shepherd.
A reputable breeder will have no issue showing you the parents of your pup and the papers of the parentage of the puppies you want to buy.
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They should be willing to share this information with you, and it can actually help determine potential health problems or the quality of the puppy.
The length of the hair itself is a fixed trait that doesn't change as the dog grows, so be wary of breeders who claim the puppy's hair will grow longer over time.
Do Nadelhaus Sell Puppies?
Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds year round.
They specialize in breeding red and black color German Shepherds.
Nadelhaus sells puppies, but the majority of them are short hair.
They occasionally have long-haired puppies available, which can be found on their Puppies & Litters page.
If you're looking for a long-haired puppy or adult, Nadelhaus can import them directly from Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are some German Shepherds fluffy and some not?
German Shepherds can have a long or short coat due to a recessive gene, which is why some breeders may try to breed out the long-haired trait. The presence of this gene determines whether a German Shepherd will have a fluffy or short coat.
How rare is a long-haired German Shepherd?
Long-haired German Shepherds are relatively rare due to their deviation from the breed standard. They can be challenging to find because they carry recessive genes that are not commonly expressed in the breed.
Are there 2 types of German Shepherds?
There are actually 5 distinct types of German Shepherds, not just two. Discover the unique characteristics of each, from the Czech to the West German Show Line.
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