There was this thread not too long ago that had some good information...
http://www.germanshepherds.com/forum/ubb...true#Post713239
I have West German Working, He is my very first dog and is pretty mellow, but his Dad was the same way. Look at the parents and find dogs that you like. I have heard that a harder male is best for beginner because you are less likely to make a mistake that will shut the dog down, that is what I have and I will say that some days I feel like he trains himself. He has been super easy to train, don't know if this is always the case.
I will say, don't cheat yourself in the drive department because you're overly concerned about livability, initially that's what my crate is for. A dog without drive is frustrating and more difficult to train. Good drive makes it much more fun. Most importantly I would look for a litter that has good temperament. Part of what I like most in my dog is his good nature and that he's so environmentally stable. This also makes training easier because I never had to worry about him being afraid of the helper, the stick, the gunshots, anything. He is always eager and happy to get to the field and play!
http://www.germanshepherds.com/forum/ubb...true#Post713239
I have West German Working, He is my very first dog and is pretty mellow, but his Dad was the same way. Look at the parents and find dogs that you like. I have heard that a harder male is best for beginner because you are less likely to make a mistake that will shut the dog down, that is what I have and I will say that some days I feel like he trains himself. He has been super easy to train, don't know if this is always the case.
I will say, don't cheat yourself in the drive department because you're overly concerned about livability, initially that's what my crate is for. A dog without drive is frustrating and more difficult to train. Good drive makes it much more fun. Most importantly I would look for a litter that has good temperament. Part of what I like most in my dog is his good nature and that he's so environmentally stable. This also makes training easier because I never had to worry about him being afraid of the helper, the stick, the gunshots, anything. He is always eager and happy to get to the field and play!