German Shepherd Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?

Everything you need to know about the German Shepherd's life expectancy, factors that affect longevity, and tips to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

Average Lifespan

9–13 years

Size Category

Large

Compared to Average

Below average

German Shepherd Life Expectancy

The German Shepherd has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years, which is below average for dogs of their size category. As of 2026, advances in veterinary medicine and improved nutrition have helped many German Shepherds reach the upper end of this range and beyond.

Several factors influence an individual German Shepherd's lifespan, including genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall lifestyle. Dogs from health-tested parents who receive consistent preventive care tend to live the longest, healthiest lives.

Lifespan Range Visualization

5 years20 years

Lifespan by Gender

Male	9–13 years
Female	9.5–13.5 years

Factors That Affect German Shepherd Lifespan

Key factors that affect German Shepherd lifespan include:

Genetics: Dogs from health-tested breeding lines have better odds of a long life
Diet: A balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for their life stage
Exercise: Regular physical activity maintains cardiovascular health and healthy weight
Veterinary care: Annual checkups and preventive treatments catch issues early
Weight management: Keeping your German Shepherd at a healthy weight can add 1-2 years to their life
Dental care: Good oral hygiene prevents infections that can affect overall health

Tips to Help Your German Shepherd Live Longer

To help your German Shepherd live their longest, healthiest life:

Feed a high-quality diet and measure portions to prevent obesity
Provide 70+ minutes of daily exercise
Keep up with all vaccinations and parasite prevention
Schedule annual veterinary checkups (twice yearly for seniors)
Brush teeth regularly or provide dental chews
Maintain mental stimulation with training, puzzles, and social interaction
Address health concerns promptly rather than waiting

Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds

Breed	Lifespan	Size
Rhodesian Ridgeback	10–12 yrs	Large
Afghan Hound	12–18 yrs	Large
Golden Retriever	10–12 yrs	Large
Sloughi	12–16 yrs	Large
Chesapeake Bay Retriever	10–13 yrs	Large

Frequently Asked Questions

The German Shepherd typically lives within the normal range for their size category. Individual lifespan depends on genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, daily exercise, mental stimulation, and preventive healthcare all contribute to a longer, healthier life for your German Shepherd.

While specific records vary, some German Shepherds have been reported to live well beyond their average lifespan with exceptional care and favorable genetics.

Studies suggest minimal difference between male and female German Shepherd lifespans, though spayed/neutered dogs may have slightly longer life expectancies.

Research in 2026 suggests that spaying or neutering can slightly increase lifespan by reducing certain cancer risks, though timing should be discussed with your veterinarian.