If you are a first-time owner doing your research about German Shepherds, there are a lot of things you would be trying to find out about this dog breed before getting one. This is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world and while we would not recommend it for first-time owners, we believe that with adequate preparation, you can still raise a well-cultured German Shepherd. In this article, I have discussed about 11 things to know before buying a German shepherd dog. Even if you are already an owner of a German shepherd, some of the things you will find here will help you make the most out of your relationship with your dog. I have discussed a lot of points that may come as a surprise to people who already own German Shepherds while some may validate some of the things owners have come to see. Whichever way this resource promises to be it comes prehensive one for everyone who needs to know what the German Shepherd is all about.
11 Things to Know Before Buying a German Shepherd Dog
- They shed a lot
- They can be aggressive but their friendliness can be ridiculous
- Training is required for protective instincts
- Very prone to illnesses
- Get ready to deal with noise
- Be prepared to exert a lot of energy in training and playing
- Clingy to the core
- Training has to begin early
- They’ve got destructive tendencies
- Very smart dogs
- Very high-maintenance dogs
Shedding
Shedding is often a major problem for owners of German shepherds. This dog breed sheds its fur all year round. You will always find clusters of fur around your home when you have a German shepherd and it gets worse when they are in their blowing period. The blowing period is typically associated with a more shedding of the dog’s fur which is a form of preparation for the forthcoming weather. So, while the German shepherd sheds its fur all year round, you should expect it to shed even more in spring and in fall.
Aggressive but Friendly
This is another feature that makes the German Shepherd a truly unique dog breed. The German Shepherd is known to have protective instincts meaning that when properly trained you can expect your German shepherd to protect your family and word of intruders. However, we have seen German shepherds become so friendly that when a stranger comes into your home they may run around looking for belly rubs and escorting these people. One of the mini parents that have come to us said they bought the German shepherd because they wanted a guard dog that will protect the family but after a year they cannot believe how friendly the dog is with neighbors, strangers, and visitors. The sum up of this is a German shepherd might have an aggressive instinct to be able to protect its family but if they are not trained properly, they are the friendliest dog breed you would ever meet.
Training is Required for Protective Instincts
I know the major reason most people go to buy a German Shepherd is because they want the dog to protect them. That is not wrong in itself because the German Shepherd has a serious protective instinct and is a very loyal dog. However, it will interest you to know that a German shepherd will not learn to protect you unless you train it to do so. If you just buy a German shepherd and allow you to grow without training it to be a guardian of the home, what you are going to end up with is a German shepherd that loves people, likes to run to meet strangers and is extremely friendly with everyone it meets. When you are buying a German shepherd because you want to protect your home, you need to be prepared to train it to do so. If you cannot train your German shepherd to protect your home, you should consult a professional. Otherwise, buy a dog from a breeder who is satisfied and can assure you of the development of this dog’s protective instincts.
Very Prone To Illnesses
Another thing you should consider before you decide whether a German Shepherd is the right dog for you is that they are prone to illnesses. A German Shepherd dog is going to fall ill for a lot of reasons ranging from genetic configuration, age, diet, activities, and much more. Your dog is going to be affected by a wide range of illnesses that are common to dogs and some that are particular to them. You will have to do a lot to ensure that they are fit, eat the right diet, and at least live in the right conditions to prevent such diseases. Even with your carefulness, when the German shepherd begins to get old it becomes susceptible to illnesses such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, and dental issues. So, be prepared to go over and beyond to make sure that your German Shepherd stays still healthy and trains properly. Also, do not buy a German shepherd from a breeder who does not practice ethical means of raising these dogs.
Get Ready To Deal With Noise
If you love your quietness or you live in a house where quietness is a prerogative, then you might want to rethink your decision to get a German shepherd. When they are not trained properly and at other times when they are just excited, you can expect your German shepherd to make a lot of noise. From howling to barking to whimpering and much more, your GSD is going to be very vocal and if you aren’t prepared to handle a bit of noise once in awhile, then you’ll need to back off from attempting to get one. The funny thing is, even if you train your dog to be quiet, there’d be times it’d violate your orders. So, just be prepared.
Energy for Playing and Training
German Shepherds are highly active and energetic dogs that require a significant amount of physical and mental stimulation daily. They were originally bred as working dogs, so they have a natural inclination to be constantly on the move and engaged in tasks. Owners need to be prepared to dedicate substantial time and effort to exercising their German Shepherd through activities like long walks, runs, hikes, and vigorous playtime. Failing to meet their exercise needs can lead to problem behaviors like excessive barking, digging, and destructiveness as the dog attempts to burn off its pent-up energy. Prospective owners should have the stamina and lifestyle to devote a couple of hours per day to actively engaging with their German Shepherd.
Clingy to the Core
You may never meet someone who is as clingy as a German Shepherd when they want to be. German Shepherds are extremely loyal and affectionate dogs that tend to form very strong bonds with their owners. They often develop a deep attachment and can become distressed when separated from their human family members for extended periods of time. This clinginess can manifest in behaviors like following the owner from room to room, whining or barking when left alone, and even experiencing separation anxiety. Owners need to be prepared to provide their German Shepherd with a lot of one-on-one attention and not leave the dog isolated for long stretches.
Training Has To Begin Early
German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that require extensive obedience training from a young age. If left untrained, their strong-willed nature and protective instincts can lead to undesirable behaviors like jumping, nipping, and excessive barking. As a parent, you should start basic commands and socialization when the puppy is just a few months old, and be prepared to invest time and effort into an ongoing training regimen. For many first-time German Shepherd owners, working with a professional dog trainer is highly recommended, at least in the early stages, to ensure the dog is properly socialized and learns good manners. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key when training these smart, eager-to-please pups.
They’ve Got Destructive Tendencies
This dog breed has a tendency to become bored and frustrated if they don’t receive enough physical and mental stimulation, leading them to find their own “projects” – which often involve destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, and shredding household items. Crate training and limiting access to off-limit areas can also help prevent German Shepherds from wreaking havoc when left alone. While these dogs are not inherently destructive, their combination of intelligence, energy, and protective nature means owners have to be proactive in meeting all of their needs.
Very Smart Dogs
As one of the most intelligent dog breeds, German Shepherds are highly trainable and can learn a wide range of commands and tricks beyond basic obedience. With positive reinforcement and consistent training, owners can teach their German Shepherd to respond to complex verbal cues and even sentences. This allows for more nuanced communication and control, which is important given the breed’s protective instincts. However, this advanced training does require a significant time investment and strong rapport between the dog and owner. Owners need to be prepared to dedicate themselves to the training process and gradually build up the dog’s skills over time.
Very High-maintenance Dogs
Caring for a German Shepherd requires a major commitment of time, effort, and resources. In addition to the extensive training and exercise needs, these dogs also require regular grooming, veterinary care, and careful monitoring of their health. Their thick double coats shed heavily, necessitating frequent brushing to prevent matting and keep the home free of dog hair. German Shepherds are also prone to certain genetic health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, so owners must be prepared to cover the costs of specialized medical care. Prospective owners need to have the lifestyle, finances, and dedication to provide a German Shepherd with the level of care and attention they require to thrive.
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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