Anyone own a German Shepherd?

Question

How are they with kids (if socialized early)? I know they shed a lot. Are they easy to houstrain, dog aggessive, will be an only dog, but will be at families a lot with several dogs. Any info or experiences would be helpful.

Answer 1

I have owned German Shepherds for the past 15 years. The most important thing is to let the dog know that you are the ALPHA (boss). My dog was taught not to jump or bite at a very voung age (6 wks old). At the same time, my son (6 wks old too) and 2 daughters (age 5 and 7) were taught to respect the dog and not play excessively rough with him. I was the ALPHA.
You need to understand that dogs are pack animals and respect the ALPHA (boss). Once the boss is CLEARLY established, then there should not be any problems.
ALSO, it is important to socialize your puppy. Take him out and get him used to all kinds of people and noises, so that when he is out being walked, he won't freak out. Make sure the dog know what a leash is and knows that it is a good thing.
I try to brush my dogs at least once a day if I have the time. My male espically enjoys this. Something else that your dog should know is the basic commands of sit, stay come, heal, down,and load up (for rideing in a vehicle). Take him to a dog training class.
My male dog was very protective of my husband and son. When they were out in the country, they came across a bull. Prince (our dog) jumped right in the middle and it gave my husband and son (4 yrs old at the time) time to climb up on a rock and out of harms way. Eventually when my husband caught up with the two of them, Prince was laying in the bulls shadow daring the bull to move!!!!
I have a male and female at the present tima that are VERY PROTECTIVE. But at the same time, if you were to come in the yard with me , they would probably lick you to death and want to be 90 pound lap dogs. They are very loving and very loyal!!!!!

Answer 2

I have one that's five months old. He is very smart and playful. The only problem is my 3 year old child is scared of him because the dog jumps up and on the kids sometimes when playing. He has never acted the least bit aggressive towards our family or friends . If a stranger walks up he will growl and act mean but he calms down quickly when we call him. We couldn't keep him in the house because as a puppy he chews on the furniture. He is already over 50 pounds. They are big dogs! We feel very safe with Bo around. I love German Shepard dogs because they are so smart and loyal. I had one as a child and I wanted one for my children. I would highly recommend getting one but I'd think twice about keeping him indoors .

Answer 3

i have a Labrador retriever but i would love to get a German shepherd. they are very loyal, extremely protective of their families, are very good with children if socialized early. just make sure never to leave young children around even the friendliest dog because you never know what might happen. teach your children not to poke the dogs eyes and ears. if the child tortures the puppy chances are he is going to grow up to be an very aggressive dog. people usually miss that part and are careless of leaving their children alone with dogs then when the dog attacks he has to be put down. just make sure the children and dog are watched and supervised by an adult.

Answer 4

i grew up with GSD's, and they all were great. GSD's are herding dogs and they are loyal. If anything, they will try to "herd" your kids. They need to be a part of the family, you can't keep them outside and isolated, you shouldn't do this with ANY dog, but GSD's are sensitive and very smart. They need mental stimulation. They are content to watch guard over your brood and will let you know when anyone comes into the yard. They are easy to train because they are so intelligent and are eager to learn. My latest dog, I rescued from the pound an dhe lets the neighbourhood kids tug and hug him and he is very loving towards kids. As long as you make him a member of your family and give him lots of love and attention.......as you should with all dogs....he will be fine. Don't forget to have your dog spayed or neutered!

Answer 5

I've dealt with GS since I was a kid, and my husband (I don't claim them because they are dumb as stumps) has two. They are good with kids, but can be rather overwhelming for little children due to their size. The shedding really isn't that bad, and they can be house trained. I would suggest a cage to train them in. They are very territorial and only prove to be mean if they become attached to a member of your family and someone tries to mess with that family member. They are especially protective of their puppies. They also never forget a face!

Answer 6

I have a German Shepherd and she's VERY nice and friendly with kids and others. Mine doesn't shed alot but I've heard others do. I've had her for 7 years and she's never bit anyone and was house trained very easily. And so nice with kids. Hope this helps!

Answer 7

I have a Male German Shepherd 2yrs old. Yes he sheds a lot specially in Summer. He is fine with everyone in my family but not with my younger brother. He have shown agressive behavior towards him. Maybe he does not like him or thinks he is a threat? He protects his teritory and can be agressive towards starangers sometimes.

Answer 8

Aww I love my dog to pieces. I have two. One is mine and one is my sisters and course i got german shepherd. Her name is bear and can be a little agressive but we take her to the vet for temperment shots so she is not wild and mean. She is very nice loves kids and licks your face alot. She barks but not too much and loves to chase bunnies in the hard and very playfull. she doesnt listen when she gets her chance to run. She sneaks out doors when people come in and out and really hard to catch. I have to get in my car and tell her i am going to camp to see anheiser (rotweiller) who is her boyfriend and justs jumps in the car. right now she is sleeping on my floor and gentle dog. She is a extremely protective dog. The slightest sound she hears she barks to get someones attention. easy to train and lets you know when she has to go pee. Easy enough to say anyone got to go pee or outside and runs to the door.lol

Answer 9

i have a german sheperdess and shes very good and has a life expectancy of 75!

Answer 10

they are very trainable- and faithful, and very good with kids- but they require training and love- you can't just expect them to know how to behave- but they tend to be friendly.