When someone comes to us asking to get a German Shepherd, we’ve learned to not jump at the idea and be all positive. This is because a German Shepherd may be a great dog but they’ve got a lot of disadvantages that can wear out first-time dog owners or inexperienced pet parents. In this article, we’ve pointed out 20 problems you are likely going to encounter when you get yourself a GSD.
20 Disadvantages of Owning a German Shepherd
The following are some of the disadvantages of owning a German Shepherd which we’ve observed over time:
- They require lots of exercise and mental stimulation
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptibility to health issues like Bloat and Hip Dyslexia
- Aggression can be difficult to tame in certain breeds
- Shedding is seasonal and frequent
- Requires proper grooming
- Strong-willed
- Require consistent training
- Require strong leadership
- Short life span
- Can become very friendly with strangers
- One of the most genetically diverse dogs
- Can become overprotective of their human
- May become too smart to handle
- High prey drive
- Difficulty with potty training
- Susceptibility to skin allergies
- Potential to bark excessively
- Insurance cost runs a hundred short of $1,000 annually
- Could exhibit destructive behavior
They Require Lots Of Exercise And Mental Stimulation
German Shepherds belong to a class of working dogs, making them an active and energetic breed that thrives on physical exercise and mental challenges. They have a high energy level and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Daily walks, runs, and engaging play sessions are essential to fulfill their exercise needs.
Additionally, mental stimulation is equally important to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Engage them in puzzle toys, obedience training, or even agility courses to keep their intelligent minds sharp and satisfied.
Prone To Separation Anxiety When Left Alone
You know kids wouldn’t like to be left alone, that is how much your German Shepherd would want your attention and expect to follow you anywhere you go. A GSD can build a strong bond with its owner that when left alone could begin to feel a phenomenon we call separation anxiety. They’d become more vocal and appear frustrated due to being starved of attention.
It’s essential to gradually introduce them to alone time from an early age, starting with short periods and gradually lengthening the duration. We also recommend enrolling them in doggy daycare or hiring a dog sitter to provide them with the necessary companionship when you’re away.
Susceptibility To Health Issues Like Bloat And Hip Dyslexia
German Shepherds are unfortunately prone to certain health issues, including Bloat and Hip Dysplasia. Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and traps gas, leading to a dangerous buildup. It’s important to monitor their diet, avoid vigorous exercise immediately after meals, and feed them smaller, frequent meals to minimize the risk.
Hip Dysplasia, a common condition in large-breed dogs, affects the hip joint’s proper development, causing pain and mobility issues. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing joint supplements can help manage this condition and improve their quality of life.
Aggression Can Be Difficult To Tame In Certain Breeds
While German Shepherds are generally known for their loyalty and protective nature, aggression can be a challenge in certain individuals. They may exhibit aggressive behavior towards other animals or strangers without proper training, socialization, and guidance.
It’s crucial to start socializing them early, exposing them to various situations, people, and animals to ensure they develop into well-rounded and friendly dogs. I’ll talk about a GSD’s need for training.
Shedding Is Seasonal And Frequent
If you cannot deal with a big fur ball, littering hair around your house all the time then a German Shepherd isn’t right for you. GSDs have a dense double coat that sheds consistently throughout the year and experiences heavier shedding seasons.
Their shedding can be quite significant, especially during the spring and fall when they shed their undercoat. Sometimes, when you think you’ve handled all the “GSD Glitter” as it is called, you may find some more.
Requires Proper Grooming
German Shepherds require regular grooming to maintain the health and appearance of their coats. In addition to managing shedding, their coat needs to be brushed to prevent matting and tangles. Bathing should be done as needed, but not excessively to avoid drying out their skin.
You’ll also need to pay attention to their ears, teeth, and nails as well. If you are not cut out for regular ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and nail trimming then you may not want to get a GSD. Otherwise, you’ll need to spawn off the task to professional groomers for dogs.
Strong-willed
A German Shepherd is very intelligent and it makes them strong-willed. What this means is that they are independent thinkers and may challenge your authority if not provided with consistent training and clear leadership. You will have to establish yourself as the pack leader through positive reinforcement training, setting boundaries, and maintaining a confident and assertive approach.
To do this, you need to be consistent and patient. These traits are important in dealing with a GSD’s strong-willed nature and ensuring they understand the rules and expectations.
Require Consistent Training
This is one area where a lot of people crack – when we begin to explain how much training their German Shepherds would require all their lives. Due to their intelligent and highly trainable nature, a German Shepherd will require consistent training throughout their lives.
With their strong working drive and desire to please, they excel in obedience training, agility, and various other activities. Regular training sessions not only provide mental stimulation but also help maintain their obedience and good behavior.
Require Strong Leadership
A GSD’s need for strong leadership is one of the reasons why we do not consider them good for first-time dog owners. To get the best out of a German Shepherd, you must be prepared to present yourself as a calm and assertive leader. Through consistent and clear communication, you can do this with ease.
It’s important to be a reliable and trustworthy guide to help them navigate through life and establish a balanced and well-behaved dog.
Short Lifespan
German Shepherds, like many large breed dogs, unfortunately, have a relatively short life span compared to smaller breeds. On average, they live between 9 to 13 years. While this may seem shorter than desired, it is important to focus on providing them with a fulfilling and happy life during their time with us.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love and care can help maximize their lifespan and ensure they enjoy every moment by your side.
Can Become Very Friendly With Strangers
I have seen people buy GSDs just because they want a guard dog only for the German Shepherd to become too friendly with strangers. While your German Shepherd is known for being a protective dog breed, you may find it more sociable and less territorial. This can have something to do with their nature or your training methods.
You will need to adopt proper training and socialization to help your German Shepherds become welcoming and friendly with strangers while still maintaining their natural protective instincts.
One Of The Most Genetically Diverse Dogs
German Shepherds are one of the most genetically diverse dog breeds. This diversity contributes to their wide range of physical characteristics and temperaments. While it is a positive aspect in terms of the breed’s overall resilience, it can also mean that individual German Shepherds may have specific genetic predispositions or health concerns.
When bringing a German Shepherd into your life, it’s important to research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Can Become Overprotective Of Their Human
A German Shepherd’s protective nature can become a sort of obsession. While their loyalty and protective nature are admirable traits, it is important to establish boundaries and ensure that their protective instincts are channeled appropriately.
Through early socialization, exposure to different people and situations, and consistent training, you can help prevent their protective behavior from going overboard. One of our many suggestions is to get them in obedience classes or work with a professional dog trainer who can also guide them to manage their protective instincts in a balanced and controlled manner.
May Become Too Smart To Handle
German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation and engagement. However, their intelligence can sometimes make them prone to becoming bored or finding their own ways to entertain themselves. This may lead to them exhibiting behaviors such as finding creative ways to escape or engaging in destructive activities.
To prevent this, it is essential to provide them with plenty of mental challenges, such as puzzle toys, obedience training, or interactive games. Keeping them mentally engaged and providing outlets for their intelligence can help prevent them from becoming too smart for their own good.
High Prey Drive
German Shepherds are known for their high prey drive. This means that they may have a strong instinct to chase and potentially harm small animals, such as squirrels or cats. It is important to be aware of this instinct and take appropriate measures to prevent any harm to other animals.
What you need to manage this is training and proper socialization which can help manage their prey drive and redirect their focus toward appropriate activities. Using positive reinforcement training methods and providing plenty of exercise can help channel their energy and prey drive constructively.
Difficulty With Potty Training
Potty training can sometimes be a challenge with German Shepherds, as they can be stubborn and independent. Trying to establish a regular schedule for feeding and bathroom breaks can be a difficult nut to crack. However, it is not unattainable.
Consistency is crucial to avoid confusion and ensure they understand the expectations. If potty training proves to be particularly challenging, seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist can be beneficial.
Susceptibility To Skin Allergies
Although rare, German Shepherds are prone to developing skin allergies, which can cause discomfort and itching. Common allergens include certain foods, environmental factors like pollen or dust mites, and contact with certain materials.
Best way to fix these issues is by grooming and maintaining good hygiene. Only use high-quality, hypoallergenic shampoos and avoid harsh chemicals in your dog’s grooming routine. If you notice any signs of skin irritation or allergies, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who can provide appropriate treatment and guidance.
Potential To Bark Excessively
German Shepherds are not necessarily quiet dogs. They can be vocal when they choose to. It is essential to address this behavior early on to avoid developing a habit. Proper socialization, training, and providing mental and physical stimulation can help manage their barking tendencies.
Teaching them a “quiet” command and rewarding them for calm behavior can be effective strategies. Identifying the underlying triggers and addressing any anxiety or fear they may be experiencing can also help reduce excessive barking.
Insurance Cost Runs A Hundred Short Of $1,000 Annually
German Shepherds are often considered a higher-risk breed by insurance companies, which can impact the cost of insuring them. On average, the annual cost of insurance for a German Shepherd runs close to $1,000, but it can vary depending on factors such as the dog’s age, health, location, and the specific insurance policy chosen.
While insurance can provide financial protection in case of unexpected veterinary expenses, it’s also important to prioritize your German Shepherd’s health and safety by providing regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and a safe environment to minimize the likelihood of needing to rely heavily on insurance coverage.
Could Exhibit Destructive Behavior
German Shepherds, especially when not provided with adequate mental and physical stimulation, can exhibit destructive behavior. This may include chewing on furniture, digging up the yard, or engaging in excessive barking. To prevent destructive behavior, it’s important to provide them with plenty of exercise, interactive toys, and mental challenges.
Engaging in activities such as obedience training, agility, or scent work can help channel their energy positively and constructively. Additionally, crate training can be useful in creating a safe space for them when they are unsupervised, reducing the likelihood of destructive behavior. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when addressing and redirecting destructive tendencies.
Final Thoughts on Disadvantages of Owning a German Shepherd
Yes. German Shepherds are great dogs but they aren’t without flaws. You won’t find all these disadvantages in one dog but the breed entirely will be susceptible to them. However, they are really great dogs and if you really want to get one, we have an article on the advantages of getting a GSD. You may find that the pros outweigh the cons of owning one.
Ole Dog House began in 2000 and was officially incorporated in 2004, strengthened by a technical partnership with Samantha Straub of Von Der Burg Loisenthal Kennels in South Africa. Over the past two and a half decades, our kennel has established itself as a leader in Nigeria’s canine industry, producing top-quality German Shepherd Dogs that strictly adhere to WUSV standards.
We are proud members of WUSV, the German Shepherd Dog Federation of South Africa, and the International Society for the Preservation and Advancement of the East German Shepherd Dog. Our commitment to excellence has taken us to GSD specialty shows and elite kennels across South Africa, Europe, and the Americas, expanding our knowledge and refining our breeding practices.
At Ole Dog House, our mission is to nurture a community of ethical breeders and passionate dog enthusiasts who are committed to preserving the integrity of the German Shepherd breed. Whether you are an experienced breeder, a first-time owner, or simply an admirer of this exceptional breed, we are here to provide valuable insights and expert guidance.
Thank you for visiting OleDogHouse.com—your trusted source for all things German Shepherd. Welcome to a world where excellence and passion for the breed unite!
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