Hi Shawn.
We currently own a black lab and a GSD. Two completely different personalities if you ask me. Both great dogs but I’ve honestly found it easier to train a GSD than a Lab. Both need training, mental stimulation, exercise and socialization.
I’ve owned GSDs most of my life so maybe that’s why I find them easier.
I’ve both adopted and purchased GSD and would recommend either. That really depends on you and what you’re looking for.
Of course with purchasing you do need to find a good reputable breeder but I’m sure the members here can help you with that if you find that’s what you’d like to do.
Rescues are good too. Some of the advantages to rescues are that a lot of times the dog is already spayed or neutered and already have some basic training started by the rescue group. (No potty training is a big plus in my mind.)
Good luck and enjoy yourself here.