If your not a good dog person: I want to scare you away from the German Shepherd breed of dogs. I do not want to see German Shepherds in shelters because you do not know what your doing by becoming a dog owner.
Unstable temperaments. German Shepherd Dogs are a dime a dozen, and most of them are bred and offered for sale by people who don't have the slightest idea of how to breed good-tempered dogs. Obedience instructors and behavioral consultants see LOTS of German Shepherds with neurotic behaviors, including aggression, biting, sharpness, and/or extreme fearfulness.
Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. German Shepherds MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by destructive chewing. Bored German Shepherds can make a shambles of your house and yard.
Providing enough socialization. Most German Shepherds have protective instincts toward strangers. They need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal behaviors of "good guys." Then they can recognize the difference when someone acts abnormally. Without careful socialization, they may be suspicious of everyone, which could lead to biting. Some German Shepherds go in the opposite direction -- without enough socialization, they become fearful of strangers, which can lead to defensive biting.
Animal aggression. Some German Shepherds are dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. Some have strong instincts to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures. If anything goes wrong in the breeding, socializing, training, handling, or management of this breed, it is capable of seriously injuring or killing other animals.
Heavy shedding. German Shepherds shed only once a year -- for 365 days. In other words, they shed constantly. You'll find hair and fur all over your clothing, upholstery, carpeting, under your furniture, on your counter tops -- Frequent vacuuming will become a way of life. Make sure you're REALLY up for this.
Serious health problems. From hip and elbow problems, to bone diseases and cancer, to stomach disorders and skin diseases, German Shepherds are one of the riskiest of all breeds in the health department.
Legal liabilities. German Shepherds may be targeted for "banning" in certain areas, or refusal of homeowner insurance policies. In this day and age, the legal liabilities of owning any breed that looks intimidating and has a history as a guard dog should be seriously considered. People are quicker to sue if such a dog does anything even remotely questionable.
* There are energetic German Shepherds, and placid ones.
* Hard-headed German Shepherds, and sweet-natured German Shepherds.
* Serious German Shepherds, and good-natured goof balls.
* Introverted German Shepherds, and German Shepherds who love everyone.
Now if all of this has not scared you away from the German Shepherd read on.
Some German Shepherd bloodlines are "hard" and businesslike, while others are calmer and milder.
The German Shepherd is one of the most capable and trainable breeds in all of dogdom, exceedingly eager to learn and work, the German Shepherd, when well-trained by a confident owner, can excel at high levels of competition."
Responsible, knowledgeable breeders breed dogs together only when BOTH dogs have been medically tested for genetic health problems.
Which health problems varies from breed to breed. A responsible, knowledgeable breeder knows which tests are required for his breed.
Responsible, knowledgeable breeders breed dogs together only when BOTH dogs have excellent temperaments, i.e. not nervous, timid, shy, hyperactive, or aggressive.
Responsible, knowledgeable breeders sell their own puppies, right from their own home. They NEVER place a puppy in a pet shop or give it to a "broker" to sell "on consignment."
German Shepherds will do fine in an apartment if they have sufficient exercise. They do need a job though so even in a home with a yard, these dogs should have something to do so they feel needed.
Ten Commandments for the Responsible Pet Owner
1. My life is likely to last l0 to l5 years. Any separation from you will be very painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me--it's crucial for my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. I HAVE ONLY YOU!
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'll NEVER forget it.
7. Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.
9. Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old.
10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say "I can't bear to watch it" or "Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for ME if you are there. Remember, I love you.
As A German Shepherd owner you need to be a pack leader.
If you do not know what that means or how to be a pack leader I would suggest you read Be The Pack Leader by Cesar Millan AKA The Dog Whisperer this will give you some incite to your dog as well as to yourself.
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