Will a German Shepherd Make the Best Pet Dog-The Pros & Cons

If you are looking for a large pet dog it would be hard to ignore the German Shepherd. This is especially true if you are looking for a watch, guard or other type of working dog as well as one of the best dogs for the whole family. Police departments seem to favor the German Shepherd as a K-9 dog and they are well known as a military dog. Although they are most famous for these types of activitys they also make great family pets.

Even though they originated in Germany, they have come to represent the "All American" dog. They have appeared in many movies and television shows. Who can forget Rin Tin Tin? But no matter how appealing a breed of dogs can be, there is always the possibility that this breed won't be compatible to your lifestyle. Before making up your mind learn more about German Shepherds at the American Kennel Club website AKC MEET THE BREEDS®: German Shepherd Dog. Below you will find some of the main pros and cons of having a pet German Shepherd.

Pros:

German Shepherds are a smart (usually scoring in the top five of intelligent breeds), highly trainable breed.

Because of their beauty and intelligence, having a pet German Shepherd is a bit of a status symbol in the world of pet-owning.

They love the companionship of humans. Given their preference, they would choose to be with the family at all times.

German Shepherd Dogs are alert, and, as such, make terrific guard dogs.

Their temperament makes them good candidates for service, military, or guide dogs.

Cons:

In order to stay happy and well-adjusted, pet German Shepherds need plenty of exercise and activity. If you and/or your family are not active you might want to choose another type of dog.

In spite of the fact that being a good guard dog can be a plus for a family, at the same time it could be a problem. If a German Shepherd is not socialized properly and trained adequately, they could misdirect their protective instincts.

There are several health problems that have to be monitored in German Shepherds so you should make sure to have regular veterinarian visits.

German Shepherds may take awhile to accept other animals in their territories. Training will be important in order for a Shepherd to get along with other pets in the household.

Their exuberance may be a problem for some families especially if they are allowed inside. They will need to taught indoor manners. .

Your pet German Shepherd will do its best to please you. They will try to do tasks or take actions they think will make you happy, even when the result is not what you are looking for. This trait, along with the fact that they are a rather large breed who are naturally rambunctious along with being very intelligent are prime reasons for more training and discipline than other dogs might need. Concentrated and consistent training can help cure the frustration and anxiety these traits might cause for owners. As popular as this breed is, there are also some drawbacks. One of these is when owners don't take the time to adequately research information to learn more about this exceptional dog. Some dogs can be good pets with a minimum of training but your pet German Shepherd will require a lot of training for both of you to be happy with each other. With proper training and discipline your German Shepherd will be the most loyal and protective friend you and your family will ever find.

Don Levy AKC MEET THE BREEDS®: German Shepherd Dog American Kennel Club