The German Shepherd, originally bred in Germany in the late 19th century, is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. A universally popular dog, this breed excels in various roles, from working as police and military dogs to being devoted family companions. Below we’ll look further into the breed and also at Pet Insurance for the German Shepherd from Pet Insurance Australia.
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Nikki LevinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely incredible service to the absolute highest standard. Pay back is immediate, gap cover is accepted, and in general the nicest most caring humans. I could not support my precious dog without their support. Could not recommend highly enough. Jen WebsterTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My normally very healthy, happy 16th month old chihuahua suddenly became very ill and had to be rushed to the animal hospital. After lots of tests and an overnight stay plus a week of strong antibiotics, she is now back to her normal lovely self. PIA accepted all the claims and processed the payments whilst I was still at the hospital. I could not be happier with the service I received from PIA. Simone RichardsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Only need to pay the gap, prompt claims and high proportion of costs covered- wouldn’t be without - so grateful for PIA for our golden retriever- wouldn’t be without - highly recommend! Brad DeasTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been insured with Pet Insurance Australia for our dog Ella for about 4 years now. The claiming process is extremely easy online and we usually receive our rebate within a day or so. Most recently we attended Sash Veterinary Hospital and they were able to process our claim for us so we only had to pay the gap payment. I would highly recommend Pet Insurance Australia. Personal GmailTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PIA have become one of the best in their field. I highly recommend them, in fact many of my friends have signed up after my recommendation. Richard Taylor (artywah)Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our dog has had to undergo specialist cancer treatment and ongoing follow-up care. The PIA claims process has been easy to manage and has offered peace of mind for the cost of treatment Bianca BonnyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great Experience for my Beaglier Daisy! Easy, Stressfree and the whole team is great! Highly recommend Diane McKayTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent. Never a problem. Claims paid promptly. Jeffrey MarcTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very easy process to claim and fast reimbursement. It has been a massive help with helping our dog with his allergies. Very happy with them.Google rating score: 4.7 of 5, based on 471 reviewsVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
The German Shepherd is a strong, intelligent, and versatile breed that was originally developed in Germany in the late 19th century.
Bred primarily as a working dog, the German Shepherd was designed for herding and guarding livestock. Their exceptional intelligence, loyalty, and trainability made them ideal candidates for a variety of roles, including police and military work, search and rescue, and service dog duties.
Today, German Shepherds are not only highly valued as working dogs but are also beloved as family pets. Their active nature and protective instincts make them perfect companions for experienced dog owners and those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
The German Shepherd’s rich history as a hardworking and dedicated breed continues to shape its reputation as one of the most respected and popular dog breeds worldwide.
Our dog insurance plans offer coverage for up to 90%* of eligible vet bills, a 21-day cooling-off period, friendly customer service, and the added perk of 2 months free on any new pet insurance plans.
German Shepherds are known for their strength, loyalty, and intelligence.
They are highly trainable and thrive in environments where they have a job to do, making them excellent candidates for police, military, and service work.
They are deeply loyal to their families and often form strong protective bonds with their owners, making them excellent guard dogs. These dogs are active, energetic, and enjoy regular exercise, so they require daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
German Shepherds are typically friendly with family members, but they can be reserved around strangers, making them protective without being overly aggressive.
Their high intelligence and desire to please make them responsive to training, although they do require consistency and firm leadership. With a dense double coat, they need regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons, to maintain their coat’s condition.
Overall, the German Shepherd is a courageous and hardworking breed that makes an excellent companion for active families or individuals seeking a loyal and protective dog.
Average Height
60-65 cm (males), 55-60 cm (females)
Average Weight
30-40 kg (males), 22-32 kg (females)
Temperament
Loyal, intelligent, and courageous
Lifespan
9-13 years
Known Genetic Issues
Hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy
Country of Origin
Germany
Exercise Requirements
High; needs regular physical and mental stimulation
Coat
Double coat
Coat Colours
Black and tan, sable, black
Specific Care Requirements
Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming.
These joint conditions can cause pain and mobility issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
A progressive spinal cord disease leading to hind limb weakness. While there is no cure, physical therapy can help manage the condition.
A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, requiring immediate surgical intervention.
Regular check-ups are essential to detect and manage heart conditions, which can be prevalent in older German Shepherds.
If you are interested in learning more about pet insurance for dogs, please don’t
hesitate to get in touch with Pet Insurance Australia. We offer a range of coverage options to ensure
your pet enjoys a long and happy life with the family.
1 - Terms & Conditions Apply. 2 Month Offer Terms & Conditions can be viewed by clicking here
2 - Depending on your level of cover. Policy T&Cs, limits, exclusions, waiting periods and excess may apply.
3 - You may be eligible for a higher limit; if so, this will be specified in your certificate of insurance.
4 – Applies per Policy Period and is deducted from the benefit payable to you, depending on the cover option chosen. Please note the $600 excess option is not available with a 70% benefit percentage.
5 – T&Cs Apply. MyPetPass® is a rewards programme provided by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923 (PetSure). Available to holders of active policies. myPetPass® perks are provided by PetSure and third-party suppliers and also subject to these third-party suppliers’ terms and conditions. myPetPass® perks may be amended or withdrawn any time without notice. PetSure does not guarantee that any particular third-party providers will continue to participate in myPetPass® through the offer or provision of perks, or that the myPetPass® rewards programme or any myPetPass® perks or features of myPetPass® will continue to be available. Full Terms & Conditions available at mypetpass.com.au/terms.
6 – After all documentation received.
7 - A separate limit applies to the non-insurance Routine Care item. Routine Care limits apply to specific routine care items. Click here for more info.
8 - There is a 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament claims. This waiting period may be waived at our discretion. For details on the waiver process, refer to the applicable Product Disclosure Statement.
9 - Terms & Conditions Apply. 3 Month Offer Terms & Conditions can be viewed by clicking here
10 - Live Vet Support is a service provided by PetSure that gives you 24/7 access to general veterinary telehealth advice for your insured pet(s) via online video or chat, via the Customer Portals owned and operated by PetSure. Access to Live Vet Support consultations subject to the Customer Portal terms of use.
11 - Available at participating vets, find your nearest GapOnly® Vet at gaponly.com.au. The gap is the difference between the vet’s invoice and the eligible claim benefit under your pet insurance policy. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183. GapOnly® is available on eligible claims at participating vets with a pet insurance policy from a GapOnly® pet insurance partner.
12 - A 5% discount off your second pet insured, 10% discount off your third pet insured, 15% discount off your fourth and subsequent pets insured. For full terms and conditions of this discount, click here
13 - Policy T&Cs, Booster Care limit, applicable benefit percentage, waiting periods and exclusions apply. Annual excess may apply.
14 - Policy T&Cs, limits, exclusions and waiting periods apply. Annual excess may apply.
15 - Depending on the level of cover chosen
Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. the PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.
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