All FAQs related to the German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian) breed are answered on this page. This page will forever be under construction. New questions and answers will be added from time to time. Enjoy!
You may also find relevant, interesting information on the GSD breed page.
Let us start with some negative FAQs:
What is bad about the German Shepherd dog breed?
Without careful socialization, a German Shepherd may be suspicious of everyone. Some German Shepherds have an inherited form of shyness. Dogs who are genetically shy can be helped a little bit by socialization – but not cured. Yet another reason to be very careful when acquiring this breed.
What you need to know/be aware of before considering a GSD?
German Shepherds are active and intelligent dogs. They must be kept busy learning, playing, and working. Daily exercise, both physical (such as jogging and Frisbee) and mental (such as training sessions), is a must. German Shepherds can be aloof and suspicious of strangers.
Are they aggressive towards other dogs?
No. German Shepherds are generally good with other dogs. However, because they are an intelligent working breed, it’s not unusual for them to be somewhat aloof when encountering dogs for the first time. But once another dog has gained their trust, it’s easy for them to become fast friends.
Are German Shepherds an aggressive dog breed?
Yes and No. The German Shepherds are patient dogs but sometimes maybe violent and repulsive but with early socialization and proper training, the aggression can be kept under check. They are regarded as one of the finest guard dog breeds the world has seen so far.
Do German Shepherds Bite Or Attack Their Owners?
German Shepherds are the most loved pet dogs in the United States of America according to experts. When a guard dog like a German Shepherd attacks someone, biological, genetic, and other factors should be taken into account. As per reports, U.S government currently employs around 2500 German Shepherds for various tasks ranging from border patrolling and for sniffing contrabands. With good selective breeding programs, this crazy temperamental trait has definitely been eliminated to a large extent from a purebred German Shepherd dog.
Do German Shepherds Really Shed A Lot?
Yes. German Shepherds have a thick double coat. These dogs shed throughout the year, and they shed extensively twice a year. This process of shedding the undercoat is often called “blowing coat.” It normally starts on the back legs and proceeds forward and takes a fortnight for the process to fully end.
Why you shouldn’t get a GSD?
German Shepherds, like any large breed, are prone to canine hip dysplasia, a crippling and potentially fatal disease. Many GSDs are bred for show and have problems – are not as physically fit compared to working dogs. Good GSD breeders will be aware of such problems and how to avoid them. You need to be aware and pick the right puppy.
Do GSDs get attached to one person?
German Shepherds will generally attach themselves to one person in the family, but they can still be a good family dog. Although they have their fair share of behavioral issues, these generally stem from a lack of leadership on the part of their pet parents.
Now for some non-negative FAQs:
Do GSDs cuddle?
Apart from following you around, German Shepherds like to feel physically close to you. Snuggling or cuddling is one of the best signs that your GSD is being affectionate because this is one way they treat you as part of their pack.
How to check if the GSD is purebred?
Watch this video:
Is German Shepherd (GSD) A Good Companion Dog?
Yes. German Shepherd dog is an excellent companion dog breed. Being a very cooperative and obedient dog, German Shepherds are considered as a dog with a caring temperament and calm nature.
Unique reasons why German Shepherd is favorite companion dog:
- German Shepherds require daily exercises and thereby help you gain health as well. These dogs need around 30 minutes of regular exercise. In this manner, playing or spending time with your dog will definitely make you feel energetic.
- GSDs can easily become a member of the adopted family within a short span of time.
- They are good with children if trained properly from a very young age. Early socialization and proper training methods are the basic starting steps to help a dog get accustomed.
- German Shepherds are known for their active and robust way of life. This means quite less medical expenses when compared to other dog breeds.
- Known to act as a very loyal guard dog, GSDs know how to safeguard their family members from predators and wrongdoers.
- The largest contributor to the field of police dogs, GSDs are bright enough to learn all the necessary steps.