Is a German Shepherd right for me?

[Emoore]

Originally Posted by Rott-n-GSDs

Since you currently have a dog and she is female, the question of male or female to me is a no brainer: get a male. GSDs can be same sex aggressive and in order to ensure harmony in your home, go with a male.

Wanted to re-iterate this. Get a male if you already have a female. Males definitely have the pack instinct and can be person-protective.

[DKHarris]

Originally Posted by Emoore

You may want to start a new thread down in the "Rescue and adoption-- general" thread and do some reading around there too. Lots of experienced adopters as well as rescue workers and foster homes on this forum. My best advice is to watch PetFinder every single day and to realize that the right dog may come along a little earlier or a little later than when you're 100% ready. You can absolutely find young working-line dogs in rescue.

After your recomendation I read just about every thread in there and have gotton a ton of info. Thank you.

[sheps4life]

Hi DK HARRIS,
I would recommend you look at adopting a GSD in the age range of 3.5 years old to 4 years old. Of course you’ll have to find out as much as possible about the dog before committing. A female would fit in best a little smaller than males and from my previous ownership of a female they’re great with kids and other animals but it could take some socializing to bring out the best in the dog.
The reason I wouldn’t recommend a puppy or younger dog is the time it would take to train the dog and the high energy level younger GSD have. Although a 3-4 year old will have plenty of pep the dog will be mature and past many of the destructive habits GSD posses at a young age, chewing, digging etc.
I found my GSD at a Shelter when she was age two and it was love at first sight and I knew immediately she was going home with me. I had the time and I was at an age where I could satisfy her needs while still working full time. One thing you need to know that GSD love to be with the pack and hate to be left alone for long periods of time. So hopefully when you’re at work she or he could be inside the home with your wife most of the day until you get home. A GSD in that age range would be more comfortable and wouldn’t be in need of playing the whole time you’re at work, a walk in the early am would do as exercise and trip or two outside for a few while your gone would do until you got home to spend some time with the dog and go for another walk.
GSD do get bored and stimulation is important no matter the age but a mature GSD is your best bet and you can’t go wrong with owning one they’re awesome dogs.
Any questions let me know and good luck

[DKHarris]

Originally Posted by sheps4life

Hi DK HARRIS,
I would recommend you look at adopting a GSD in the age range of 3.5 years old to 4 years old. Of course you’ll have to find out as much as possible about the dog before committing. A female would fit in best a little smaller than males and from my previous ownership of a female they’re great with kids and other animals but it could take some socializing to bring out the best in the dog.
The reason I wouldn’t recommend a puppy or younger dog is the time it would take to train the dog and the high energy level younger GSD have. Although a 3-4 year old will have plenty of pep the dog will be mature and past many of the destructive habits GSD posses at a young age, chewing, digging etc.
I found my GSD at a Shelter when she was age two and it was love at first sight and I knew immediately she was going home with me. I had the time and I was at an age where I could satisfy her needs while still working full time. One thing you need to know that GSD love to be with the pack and hate to be left alone for long periods of time. So hopefully when you’re at work she or he could be inside the home with your wife most of the day until you get home. A GSD in that age range would be more comfortable and wouldn’t be in need of playing the whole time you’re at work, a walk in the early am would do as exercise and trip or two outside for a few while your gone would do until you got home to spend some time with the dog and go for another walk.
GSD do get bored and stimulation is important no matter the age but a mature GSD is your best bet and you can’t go wrong with owning one they’re awesome dogs.
Any questions let me know and good luck

When I think back when Zoe was a pup I rememeber chewn door moulding, Missing or destroyed clothing, She even dug threw dywall for some reason one night. Those are the memories I dont want to forget. At the time I was frustated but now it makes me laugh. Great stories. I think thats part of it all. As far as the having time part, I think doing the training classes, play time at lunch, weekends and everynight should be ample time. Also the older dog will be here who is pretty playfull.

[DKHarris]

Just an update for those who care. It has been a while since my last post.

As I get closer to this next venture I am getting excited. I thought my want for a new dog would slowly taper, but it is clear I feel like my life is complete with a partner in crime.

I have been approved with the local shelter and a GSD Rescue group as of now and will hopefully be approved by another rescue after a home inspection. I have seen a few come and go that I had interest in but I am sticking to the plan of after April 1st. Anyway, I will update this venture as I have info. Thanks again for all the info! D

[GSDisBest]

Good luck! I'm sure whatever route you go you will love a gsd. I know I love mine.

[DKHarris]

Originally Posted by GSDisBest

Good luck! I'm sure whatever route you go you will love a gsd. I know I love mine.

There is a person who has a pure GSD and a Aulstralian cattle dog (Blue Heeler). Both with papers. I guess they got frisky on night and well..... They have pups now. I was not really considering a mixed breed but this may be a good find. I am going on Friday to see them. Picks look just like a GSD pup.

[mysweetkaos]

Originally Posted by DKHarris

There is a person who has a pure GSD and a Aulstralian cattle dog (Blue Heeler). Both with papers. I guess they got frisky on night and well..... They have pups now. I was not really considering a mixed breed but this may be a good find. I am going on Friday to see them. Picks look just like a GSD pup.

Growing up we had a dog of that mix out on the farm. His name was Blue, I know very original. He was such a good dog

[PaddyD]

That is a mix of two pretty intense (potentially) breeds. Make sure you find out all about the temperaments of the parents.

[mysweetkaos]

Originally Posted by PaddyD

That is a mix of two pretty intense (potentially) breeds. Make sure you find out all about the temperaments of the parents.

Very true. Blue was perfect on the farm because there was always something to do, and someone to do it with. He never stopped "working"