Is a german shepherd really a good family dog?

Question

What about family/friends who don't visit really often? Do they get to know them too?

Answer 1

As with any breed of dog or any mutt, it depends upon how well you socialize them and train them. It also to a degree depends upon their temperament.

We had two when I was growing up and both were great family dogs. Fawn was a sweetheart who would go off with anyone. She never met a foe. Coal, on the other hand, was shy around strangers and wary of especially men and children. She was also extremely protective of my mom and me and any other human female who came over. The funny thing about the two dogs and their personalities is that everyone was scared of Fawn but seemed to totally disregard Coal as a threat. This was probably because Fawn would come bounding up to anyone, tongue hanging out, mouth gaping, eager to lick to death her "new friend"; whereas, Coal would stay sitting by Mom and me not looking aggressive but still ready to defend her people if the need arose.

I forgot to mention that I had just started 2nd grade when my mom bought Fawn, and less than a year later, we got Coal.

Answer 2

A German Shepherd is no different then any other dog,as long as you train it correctly you can take it any where schools, towns and the dog should obey your commands if you have trained it correctly. I have had 14 German shepherds and have never had any problems with any of them.
My latest one is one year old and is that well behaved he may become a pat dog where he is taken into hospitals or old peoples homes so they can touch and pat the dog.
All dogs will only become as good or bad as you want them, it is not down to the breed but the owner.

When choosing a dog for a family look at what you want and if you can give the time to the dog, is the dog to big for your home can you do the exercise that will be required look at all the possibility's before you choose a dog.

A German Shepherd will normally take to one person and bond with that person but they will be as good with any one as long as you socialize it from a puppy letting it mix with people, children,and animals they will become a great family pet, as with any breed of dog you must always be aware of what could happen

Answer 3

They are wonderful family dogs.Growing up,I had always heard that they were mean and not to be trusted,but all of that changed in 1989,when a four - month - old male GSD was hit by a car down the street from my house.The police were going to shoot this beautiful pup,but I said "No way," and took him to my vet.He had a dislocated hip,which later required surgery,as it would not stay in place,but what a wonderful dog I got.Anton was such a great dog.He got along with everyone,people,dogs and cats alike,but he was a good watchdog,too.He lived for almost 13 years before spinal myopathy took his rear legs and he had to be put down.Just a year before that ,I got a female pup,who was found running down a busy street.She was about 8 weeks old and no one ever claimed her.Lulu is wonderful,too.She is so happy when we have company.She runs to get a toy for whoever comes to the door.She even likes delivery men and repair men,and she's exceedingly patient with our cats,who love her madly.But,she's a good watchdog,too.She will bark when someone she doesn't know knocks at the door or comes into the yard,and they don't know she probably wouldn't bite them.She loves kids,especially small boys,as she grew up with my nephew.I think a GSD is a great family dog and in fact it is now one of my favorite breeds.

Answer 4

German Shepherds are great family dogs, I grew up with at least one in the house from a very young age.

They can also be very protective dogs (but not all german shepherds are).

And like any dog if they are mistreated they can be aggressive.

In my experience, they are very good with friends and family. however you should figure out soon whether your dog is protective and warn family and friends if it is.

I have had occassions where friends have given me a friendly push or slap and the dog has become very upset.

Answer 5

I have been working with German Shepherds for about 4 years now, and i will tell you, there is no better breed. They are very protective of their family especailly children. They will always be catious of strangers, even family and friends that do not visit often, however, they will not act up on that unless they since problesm or that you are uneasy.

Answer 6

A friend of mine breeds these beautiful animals. They make GREAT pets are wonderful with children of all ages. I go over to her house every once in a great while and the dogs are protective of the house but when they open the door for me to come in they are great and loving. One thing you do have to be careful of is the pedigree, make sure you get a well bred dog...otherwise you could get a literally crazy dog because of genetics. If you want to take a look my friend is expecting a litter ready to go home Christmas! http://www.weberhausgsd.com

Answer 7

German shepherds are one of the best dogs for a family. They will memorize all of your friends and family members that you allow in your home. They are great with children and protective of them. German shepherds are very loyal they are not the kind of dog that attacks a family member. They very loyal and extremely intelligent. Very easy to teach them and they will do what ever you say without a second thought. One of the greatest breeds out there. Heres more info.

http://www.nextdaypets.com/directory/breeds/1100124/

Answer 8

Yes, in most cases. However, as with any breed, how they are treated and raised will play a huge part in how good of a "family pet" they are.
My boyfriend and I have one, and though he's incredible "lovey" to everyone, he takes to me most. I've noticed this with most German Shepherds I've ever met though.
They're bold, smart, gentile, and loyal beyond words. But also stubborn!
However, if you're thinking about getting one- do your research and make sure this breed fits your living arrangement and lifestyle. :)

Answer 9

I have a German Shepard and she is a one person dog. They usually only bond to one family member. She is leery of strangers and does not like other dogs to around. Very good watch dog and very smart. She is OK with friends if we are around her when they are at our house.

Answer 10

Yes they are . My mother has a dog that is part German Shepard and she is very protective. They love to play a lot and they are fun to have around.