Is German Shepherd A Good Family Dog?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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German shepherds can be very gentle companions and family protectors

with proper training and socialization. It’s an ideal breed for active households. The intelligence and protective demeanor of this breed can make it a good choice for families with children as long as the dog is properly trained.

Are German shepherds good with kids?

A

German Shepherd is loyal and will bond well with the family children

if started at an early age. A German Shepherd has a lot of stamina and energy, making him a great playmate for active kids.

Is a German Shepherd a good first dog?

German Shepherds are

good first dogs for first-time owners

. They are easy to train, obedient, affectionate, loyal, are good with kids and other pets, making them an excellent choice for both families or lone owners. However, they need a lot of exercise, shed a lot, and can become clingy.

Do German shepherds love their family?

Although GSDs are sometimes slow to warm to strangers,

they are gentle and loving with their families

. Their affectionate and dedicated personalities are a bonus of the breed, and they can be particularly fond of children. This means your GSD wants to spend time with you rather than being left alone all day, every day.

Are German shepherds aggressive?

The German Shepherd breed is

known for their aggressive behaviors and tendencies

. In fact, they are often touted for this behavior and it is utilized to make good, strong guard dogs. … German Shepherds are considered good guard dogs but if they are not trained guard dogs, then you need to curb any aggressive tendencies.

Do German shepherds like hugs?

Indeed,

dogs may not like hugs because

it practically immobilizes them and makes them feel unprotected. But, many dog parents — especially those with German Shepherds — would attest to the fact that their pups enjoy hugs. At the very least, dogs will tolerate hugs when they come from people they trust and love.

Why you shouldn’t get a German shepherd?

German Shepherds, like any large breed, are

prone to canine hip dysplasia

, a crippling and potentially fatal disease. … Good GSD rescuers will also be aware of such problems, and whether the rescued dog you’re considering has shown symptoms of or has been treated for any health issues while with the rescue.

Are German Shepherds indoor or outdoor dogs?

The German Shepherd is

happiest living indoors

with the family, but with access to a large, fenced yard, where they can burn off some of their natural energy. You can find dogs of almost any breed, including German Shepherds, from your local shelter or breed specific rescue.

What to know before buying a German Shepherd?

  • They are smart. …
  • They can have high-energy needs. …
  • They require mental stimulation. …
  • They’re cuddle bugs at home but aloof in public. …
  • German shepherds are natural guard dogs. …
  • They are excellent listeners.

Do German Shepherds bark a lot?

German Shepherds also find

barking self-rewarding

. It burns excess energy and satisfies your dog’s natural guarding instinct. Because of this, excessive German Shepherd barking is a problem many owners struggle with.

How do you punish a German shepherd?

To discipline a German Shepherd, redirect unwanted behavior, such as destructive chewing, by distracting your dog and offer an interesting chew toy instead. Use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behavior with treats or toys.

Don’t use physical punishment

, yell, or encourage bad behavior.

Why German Shepherds bite their owners?

One common cause of dogs biting or acting aggressively towards their owners is

resource guarding

, which means the dog growls or bites if someone comes near or tries to take the dog’s food or toys, or tries to remove the dog from a resting place.

What is the nicest dog breed?

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. …
  • Golden Retriever. …
  • Havanese. …
  • Labrador Retriever. …
  • Newfoundland. …
  • Poodle. …
  • Pug. …
  • Shih Tzu. Like the Pug, the Shih Tzu was bred to be a royal companion dog.

Do German Shepherds attach to one person?


German Shepherds will generally attach themselves to one person in the family

, but they can still be a good family dog. Although they have their fair share of behavioral issues, these generally stem from a lack of leadership on the part of their pet parents.

Should I let my German Shepherd sleep with me?

As a puppy,

you should not let your German Shepherd sleep with you

, although they can sleep beside you if they are not on your bed. Your puppy needs to get used to a regular schedule, work on their independence, and see you as the dominant figure. It can be okay once your GSD is an adult.

What can German Shepherds not eat?

Foods poisonous to German Shepherds include

chocolate, grapes

, avocados, garlic, onions, leeks, wild mushrooms, macadamia nuts, walnuts, alcohol, and salt. Some more obscure foods are also toxic to dogs, such as xylitol (sweetener), yeast dough, raw potatoes, hops, green tomatoes, and moldy food.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.