brownie0486
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Nice partner there JM
Brownie
Brownie
German Shepard - Opinions Wanted/Needed - Very interested
- Thread starter Sean Dempsey
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JMusic
member
Yeah, you know the story there. We have another were raising. You'll see him in October. As you know I had cannine's I used in the SO. Sam had all the training except some of the more extreme stuff. Thats not necessary for a house dog. They will naturally protect anyway.
Jim.
Jim.
I have a gsd too. I suggest looking carefully into the many breeds of dog before choosing as there is a wonderful assortment of breeds to suit pretty much every desire you could want in a dog. Like has been said, she sheds like crazy. By now I love her far too much to even think of trading her for anything else, but I wish I'd looked into more stuff before getting a shepard. She does NOT get along with the family cat. Not like she wants to or would ever hurt her, but she just likes to play with the cat and the cat doesn't like it. The dog likes to run up on the cat and lick her and prod it with her nose and feet, and the cat hates that, so she'll take off running and when she does that it makes the dog chase her.
With a good lineage, you'll be more certain of what you're getting. Look into gsd bloodlines and look for consistency of the litters temperament and health. Being from a "German" country or whatever is meaningless, look into the specific family bloodline traits of the dog.
Some other breeds to look into.
There's always the typical rotts and dobermans, classic working dogs. Due to popularity, they are available in a range of sizes and temperaments.
The infamously powerful juggernaut of personal protection dogs- the fila. These are very large, very powerful animals. Known to be one of the most intensely loyal breeds and extremely loving towards it's family. Suspicious of strangers and a notorious guard dog in the dog world.
The japanese akita. Sporting dog now gaining popularity as a guard animal. usually 75-110lbs, attractive innocious appearance, but may not get along with your cat.
The belgian malinois, which looks and acts much like larger version of the german shepard. Also called the king of shepards. Very intelligent, generally healthy breed.
dogue de bourdeaux. Another of the working guard breeds descended from the great molossers of ancient Rome. Suspicious of strangers, a strong purpose bred guard dog.
The large working breeds tend to be confident and dominant as was necessary for them to perform their jobs under often many different circumstances. They require a strong and dominant master who cannot allow the dogs to walk over him.
With a good lineage, you'll be more certain of what you're getting. Look into gsd bloodlines and look for consistency of the litters temperament and health. Being from a "German" country or whatever is meaningless, look into the specific family bloodline traits of the dog.
Some other breeds to look into.
There's always the typical rotts and dobermans, classic working dogs. Due to popularity, they are available in a range of sizes and temperaments.
The infamously powerful juggernaut of personal protection dogs- the fila. These are very large, very powerful animals. Known to be one of the most intensely loyal breeds and extremely loving towards it's family. Suspicious of strangers and a notorious guard dog in the dog world.
The japanese akita. Sporting dog now gaining popularity as a guard animal. usually 75-110lbs, attractive innocious appearance, but may not get along with your cat.
The belgian malinois, which looks and acts much like larger version of the german shepard. Also called the king of shepards. Very intelligent, generally healthy breed.
dogue de bourdeaux. Another of the working guard breeds descended from the great molossers of ancient Rome. Suspicious of strangers, a strong purpose bred guard dog.
The large working breeds tend to be confident and dominant as was necessary for them to perform their jobs under often many different circumstances. They require a strong and dominant master who cannot allow the dogs to walk over him.
JMusic
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Steak
Member
Geman Shephards, great dogs...
I have owned 2 of them. Very god dogs very trainable. Much easier to own than a lab since they are not constantly at your heels begging for attention.
They have one big downside, and is only a downside to some. They bark a whole lot, and they bark really loud, and they bark at anything, even the smallest rustle of a field mouse in the bushes.
They are trained for that, they are bred and trained as an alarm system. Having them at home does not break them out of this.
If you leave a G Shephard at home too often, on its own, it will destroy anything in its realm that is chewable. They are just into that. When you are home, they are very affectionate, and very smart. They will not be at your feet all the time like a lab, but will want you in eyesight.
One of the greatest dogs out there, just very loud, so be ready for that.
Get a lab if you need a girlfriend. They never leave you alone. Very sweet dogs, but attention hogs.
I have owned 2 of them. Very god dogs very trainable. Much easier to own than a lab since they are not constantly at your heels begging for attention.
They have one big downside, and is only a downside to some. They bark a whole lot, and they bark really loud, and they bark at anything, even the smallest rustle of a field mouse in the bushes.
They are trained for that, they are bred and trained as an alarm system. Having them at home does not break them out of this.
If you leave a G Shephard at home too often, on its own, it will destroy anything in its realm that is chewable. They are just into that. When you are home, they are very affectionate, and very smart. They will not be at your feet all the time like a lab, but will want you in eyesight.
One of the greatest dogs out there, just very loud, so be ready for that.
Get a lab if you need a girlfriend. They never leave you alone. Very sweet dogs, but attention hogs.
One last comment
as it seems you've already acquired the dog. Find a GOOD trainer to work with---and goods ones are herd to find. If you can find one the competes in Schutzhund Sport, they probably (but still questionable IME) have worked with many different German Shepherds.
As far as some of the previous posts, about 50% are correct and 50% are quite wrong. I've been breeding and training GSDs for competition, for 15 years, and some are way off base. I also helped to start the local (although we've gotten dogs from as far away as Texas), and was the first training director, for it.
as it seems you've already acquired the dog. Find a GOOD trainer to work with---and goods ones are herd to find. If you can find one the competes in Schutzhund Sport, they probably (but still questionable IME) have worked with many different German Shepherds.
As far as some of the previous posts, about 50% are correct and 50% are quite wrong. I've been breeding and training GSDs for competition, for 15 years, and some are way off base. I also helped to start the local (although we've gotten dogs from as far away as Texas), and was the first training director, for it.
Sean Dempsey
Member
I'm really not sure where I can find trainers around here, but I'll definitley look. I know there is a search and rescue training course that dogs can certify in.
What is some of the wrong info that has been posted? I'd be interested in hearing you elaborate on the good and bad.
I got up at 4am because I couldn't sleep, I just wanted to see the dogs. They are like new people today, they are so excited to see me and are totally affectionate... after just 1 night!
Why did it have to rain though... 2 new puppies and lots of mud. Fun.
What is some of the wrong info that has been posted? I'd be interested in hearing you elaborate on the good and bad.
I got up at 4am because I couldn't sleep, I just wanted to see the dogs. They are like new people today, they are so excited to see me and are totally affectionate... after just 1 night!
Why did it have to rain though... 2 new puppies and lots of mud. Fun.
Most of these issues are not breed specific problems. All dogs get bored and will get into things if they do not get some attention on a regular basis. All dogs also need proper training. Most dog breeds can be trained by the uninitiated, but it is generally easier on everyone if you get some help. Sad part is most so called dog trainers are just plain awful. The worst seem to be those purporting to train dogs for protective purposes.
You want a family pet. The dog will have some natural protective instincts, but you should not attempt to turn the family pet into an attack dog. You should run away as fast as possible from any trainer who tells you differently.
All dogs bark to some extent. If they bark "too" much, usually it is because of poor training, or being left alone too much. The dog should be inside the house most of the time when people are home, and only left outside during the day while you are away, if that works out for both your family and the dog. A GSD is probably a good choice to leave outside in a nice fenced in yard while you are away. He can get a little exercise and chase a bird now and then. If left inside, he might get bored and eat a shoe or a couch.
Most dogs eat up attention. They love to be with their family. A nice belly rub is much appreciated, as is some quality play time, and a good walk every day.
skipjack
Member
Congratulations on your pups.
I got two puppies last fall, after my rottie died of kidney failure.
Snoopy (no, I didn't name him!) is a registered english springer spaniel. He just turned a year old in July of this year. His "sister",
Penny, is a Jack Russel/Pug cross; her birthday was in August. We got them at the same time, and they have been great for each other. I walk them twice a day, and their walks usually include some off leash time. They give me a great deal of pleasure.
Get the dogs plenty of chew toys. Mine are never in the house by themselves for more than six hours at a time, but can destroy an amazing amount of stuff when unattended. I also wish that I had crate trained them. They are confined to our tv room when alone, but I have heard nothing but good things about crate training. If I had it to do over, I would surely use a crate for each dog.
A good friend of mine is a K9 officer for Baltimore County police department.
He tells me that they experimented with other breeds for a time, but now use german and belgian shepherds exclusively. Of course, that doesn't count if you add in the drug sniffing dogs. He used to train for the PD, and has travelled to other departments to assist in training. Needless to say, he has high regard for german shepherds.
I got two puppies last fall, after my rottie died of kidney failure.
Snoopy (no, I didn't name him!) is a registered english springer spaniel. He just turned a year old in July of this year. His "sister",
Penny, is a Jack Russel/Pug cross; her birthday was in August. We got them at the same time, and they have been great for each other. I walk them twice a day, and their walks usually include some off leash time. They give me a great deal of pleasure.
Get the dogs plenty of chew toys. Mine are never in the house by themselves for more than six hours at a time, but can destroy an amazing amount of stuff when unattended. I also wish that I had crate trained them. They are confined to our tv room when alone, but I have heard nothing but good things about crate training. If I had it to do over, I would surely use a crate for each dog.
A good friend of mine is a K9 officer for Baltimore County police department.
He tells me that they experimented with other breeds for a time, but now use german and belgian shepherds exclusively. Of course, that doesn't count if you add in the drug sniffing dogs. He used to train for the PD, and has travelled to other departments to assist in training. Needless to say, he has high regard for german shepherds.
GSD's... the best there is
I have German Shepherds my entire life, and currently have two now, a male and female.
My dogs hardly ever bark. If they are barking, grab you gun or a fire extinguisher, because either someone is breaking in or the house is on fire.
I don’t know if yours will do it, but my male GSD performs recon every night. About every 2-3 hours or so, he will go around to every room and check it out, making sure everything is OK. When he is satisfied, only then will he lie down and go to sleep. Nothing like a good parameter guard. The shedding can be almost eliminated if you brush them once a week or so. Not only will it eliminate the shedding, but it is healthier for them as well. Their coats will be shiny and healthier, and the healthier their coat, the less that they will shed. A vitamin will also help curb shedding, as some shedding is a result of a nutritional imbalance.
Great looking pups by the way. Congratulations
I have German Shepherds my entire life, and currently have two now, a male and female.
My dogs hardly ever bark. If they are barking, grab you gun or a fire extinguisher, because either someone is breaking in or the house is on fire.
I don’t know if yours will do it, but my male GSD performs recon every night. About every 2-3 hours or so, he will go around to every room and check it out, making sure everything is OK. When he is satisfied, only then will he lie down and go to sleep. Nothing like a good parameter guard. The shedding can be almost eliminated if you brush them once a week or so. Not only will it eliminate the shedding, but it is healthier for them as well. Their coats will be shiny and healthier, and the healthier their coat, the less that they will shed. A vitamin will also help curb shedding, as some shedding is a result of a nutritional imbalance.
Great looking pups by the way. Congratulations
Ezekiel
Member
Cosmoline said:
Ah yes, the "Pinky and The Brain" model: classic.
My two, Dante (male beagle, 10) and Misha (female Rotty/Shepard, 12) follow this classic combo.
Dante investigates everything and calls Misha via bark if additional troops are required...
Misha doesn't investigate anything without Dante forward clearance: she's getting old.
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Bwana John
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Thats a couple of fine lookin pups you got there.
Im sure they will bring you much joy.
I especially like the gray.
I have found that over-exersized dogs do not bark or chew.
Im sure they will bring you much joy.
I especially like the gray.
I have found that over-exersized dogs do not bark or chew.
I associate with a GSD rescue group here in SOCAL and have seen a number of great dogs who's only problem was their previous owner. The dog I fostered this past spring didn't bark much at all. You'd maybe get a single "woof" to get you attention and that was it. In two weeks I counted about 10 "woofs". That was a really good dog, wish I'd kept her.
American line dogs are improving, but you're still better going for a dog with European lines. German working line (vice show line) dogs tend to be smaller, but the key to a good GSD is nerve and drives (aka temperment). Does the dog flinch, scare easy or get flustered? Bad nerves. A dog with bad nerves may bite when there is no justification. Good nerves are really important in a dog you will have around children. Drives are motivation: pack drive, food drive, ball drive, et al. A GSD with good nerves and balanced drives can be just about anything. With good nerves a GSD can cap his drives. Look for a GSD that's been bred for temperment (nerves & drive) and health (hips). Forget size.
Cruise through the GSD Forum and you may find a breeder in your area. Ask the question of some of the breeders/trainers who hang there and you'll get a response. They live and breath GSD.
$.02
American line dogs are improving, but you're still better going for a dog with European lines. German working line (vice show line) dogs tend to be smaller, but the key to a good GSD is nerve and drives (aka temperment). Does the dog flinch, scare easy or get flustered? Bad nerves. A dog with bad nerves may bite when there is no justification. Good nerves are really important in a dog you will have around children. Drives are motivation: pack drive, food drive, ball drive, et al. A GSD with good nerves and balanced drives can be just about anything. With good nerves a GSD can cap his drives. Look for a GSD that's been bred for temperment (nerves & drive) and health (hips). Forget size.
Cruise through the GSD Forum and you may find a breeder in your area. Ask the question of some of the breeders/trainers who hang there and you'll get a response. They live and breath GSD.
$.02
Cosmoline
Member
I agree generally, but don't make the mistake of thinking you can come to any conclusions about temperment with a few test to a 10 week old. All sensible pups are somewhat scared of new things, and may go through phases where they act weird and skittish. The very best GSD's I know of have all been weird and sensitive as pups. They are simply paying attention to their surroundings and learning about them, whereas lesser pups will just bound in, ignoring everything including potential dangers. If some "trainer" tells you you can judge a GSD by going "BO" to a little pup they're full of it. Moreover, you get out of the dog what you put into the dog. The more you interact and bond, and the more socialization you do, the better the dog will be.
Jrsmith
Member
From my expiriance with my mom's shepard, get ready to be obsessed over! That dog will not let her get out of its sight without investigating. To some that might get annoying, but that was exactly what my mom wanted (Dad was gone on trips alot when we got her) and she couldn't be happier. I am glad you went with two dogs, I've found that dogs just seem happier when they have a playmate and sibling (sorta), I really noticed this when we adopted (well, it was abandoned at our farm) a Black lab/German shorthair and the shepard became her mother instantly.
As for you kid, I've heard many stories about shepards being violent or whatnot, but I have never seen a better guard dog for my neice and nephew, she watches them when they play and I always feel safe that she'll let NOTHING happen to those two kids.
As for you kid, I've heard many stories about shepards being violent or whatnot, but I have never seen a better guard dog for my neice and nephew, she watches them when they play and I always feel safe that she'll let NOTHING happen to those two kids.
I had to laugh at the "cat" observation!
Once upon a time I lived with an Akita and two cats. When they were all inside the house they got along perfectly and frequently slept together in a big pile on the couch. Outside was a different story entirely ... the Akita would chase them around and try to step on them. No teeth, ever, just continual attempts to stand on the cats. Kinda weird.
Mainsail
Member
I had a GSD as a kid but my mom made me get rid of it. I named him Dog, since if you have only one, Dog is sufficient.
silliman89
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silliman89
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silliman89
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Cosmoline
Member
As far as destruction, it varies from dog to dog. Most GSD's are pretty good about not chewing on everything, at least when being supervised. If they're alone and bored it's another matter. But they can be trained out of it. The last pup I had here would make nests just like her mother and grandmother. She would go around and carefully pick up things and take them over to her nest. Anything shiny is fair game, esp. brass. She'd walk over and pluck one piece of brass out of my reloading box and carefully put it over on her pile, then do it again. She didn't do any real damage to them, she just likes shiny things
silliman89
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I think this one has drifted a little too far off topic....
Jeff
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