German shepherds are popular dogs because of their personalities. According to the American Kennel Club, German shepherds are one of the breeds that have remained steadily popular over the last three decades. If you are considering this kind of dog, here are a few guidelines of what you can expect in terms of personality and behavior.
German shepherds are athletic animals that are always on the move. They are a good choice for people who like to go for long walks and don't mind the heavy exercise requirements, and a bad choice for apartment-dwellers, since German shepherds can turn destructive when bored. Because of their protective personality, these dogs also require extensive socializing to avoid aggression towards strangers and excessive barking. They also need to learn early on how to deal with children and other animals. While they make excellent family pets, hyper German shepherds tend to nip everything that moves, so it's important that they learn their limits early on. Spaying/neutering the dog usually makes a big difference, and owners are encouraged to do so as early as possible.
German shepherds are very dedicated dogs, extremely loyal to their owners, and completely fearless when it comes to protecting their loved ones. In turn, these dogs have strong emotional needs. People who are only looking for a security dog should stay away from German shepherds, as this breed is in constant need of human attention. If you lack the time or commitment, this is not the right breed for you.
German shepherds are excellent dogs for people willing to commit to their training and care. Because of their temperament, German shepherds will seek constant attention and practically demand to be included in everyday activities. If you have a problem with a dog running around your feet, this is not the right breed for you.
Depending on breeding, German shepherds can be wonderful pets or a liability, so it's important to choose an animal that has been bred responsibly. Never buy a dog from a "backyard" breeder. Either contact the local AKC or head to the nearest shelter, where you can choose the right age and personality to fit you and your lifestyle.
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anon237582
Post 8 |
My wife and I have a 14 month old female shepherd. She has been spayed already. My wife had a nine year old shepherd when we were married five years ago. She was the greatest dog I had ever been around. She died about two years ago. I knew my wife wanted another shepherd so after two years, I bought one this past December. My wife was thrilled. At three months old, the pup decided I was her owner, not my wife. This has caused a lot of friction, but my wife has finally accepted it. For the next nine months, this was the most wonderful dog I had ever had in my life. She was totally devoted, obedient, calm, intelligent and followed me everywhere. Anyway, about two months ago (at age 10 months), she started to gradually change. She began to get very stubborn, would not stay, when at eight months she would lie down in the front yard when I was working and not move for two hours. Now she can’t sit and stay at all if I leave the room. She cannot stand to have me out of her sight. If I go to the bathroom and shut the door, she lies down against the door outside in the hallway. Every time I go to a different room in the house, she follows. My wife says she is obsessed with me. The most disturbing behavior started at about 8-9 months old and has continued to escalate. She has become destructive to the point that she has ruined hundreds of dollars worth of household items, e.g., extension cords, shoes, Christmas decorations, vacuum cleaner, etc. At first, we wrote this off as just normal puppy stage chewing, but now after four months of it, we can see it is escalating and we know this is destructive behavior, and most likely due to her being alone while we are at work, which bores her. I make it a point to exercise her daily as her favorite activity in the world is playing frisbee. I thought this would be enough to curb her high energy but this has not helped either. I love this dog dearly and have every intention of learning about her from other shepherd owners so we can help her be more happy and contented. Any help other owners have would be much appreciated. Sincerely, frustrated. |
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anon152242
Post 7 |
I have a rescue German Shepherd 2 1/2 yrs old. I was expecting to go long walks and have a very active dog but she likes to walk but a mile is enough as she turns to go home. She was a very aggressive dog and went for everyone. I was her last hope. I will say she was a challenge and it took a few battles with her to establish myself with her. How did I do it?, just lots of love, patience and firm commands in playtime activities, a load of touching. Tummy rubs eventually came. Why was she so aggressive? simple: anxiety. She had to learn to trust me and know I was the boss but always remained fair. Her only problem now is separation anxiety I am working on this and she is getting better. This dog was going to be put down and it was our fault. We all need to learn to read our dogs. I have a wonderful friend who has many friends who she adores and they adore her. She is so loyal and so affectionate and loves her cuddles as much as I do even when I am nearly suffocated with her fluffy massive body. German Shepherds are great dogs but need a good experienced owner who understands their needs. |
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anon145612
Post 6 |
Shepherds do fine in an apartment as I lived in an apartment with one. Good training is important. Mine ran in a park and went for walks. She was a good dog and quiet. I own another one now and live in a house now but they are fine in an apartment. Shepherds are great! |
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anon128392
Post 5 |
I totally disagree with your opinion that the German Shepherd is not a good choice for an apartment dweller. They are excellent apartment dogs as long as they are exercised daily for an hour or so. Every dog I've ever owned has been a purebred Shepherd, and never have I owned one that "nips at everything that moves" -- never. A German Shepherd dog is only as good as his/her handler/trainer wants them to be. Take the dog everywhere with you, treat it like a member of the family, and you will have a true friend until his/her last living second. I would own no other breed. Why mess with the best? |
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anon126528
Post 4 |
I have a four year old shepherd and I agree completely. He's not neutered, and I wish I would've done it earlier. He's a great dog, we live with a cat and they get along like brother and sister. They bicker constantly although he would never hurt the cat but they have a very interesting relationship. He is a nipper, but thank God I had him trained early. I would highly recommend having them professionally trained. My dog is hi-prey and it was extremely beneficial. |
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anon122489
Post 2 |
good information man. keep it up. |
