I live in a complex, and want to get a German Shepherd puppy, but my neighbours said NO. What should I do?

Question

I have made a web site, to show my understanding, if you want to see it here is the link: http://dog.luvr.4eva.googlepages.com/
Hope you like it. I have already written a letter to them, but they havent replied. I bet they think: "Who cares what a 13yr old writes!"
The by-laws say they have to have a valid reason, and "not enough space", "because of the barking" are not valid.

Answer 1

You made that web page? If you did, bravo, because my web sites are always a mess and a half. lol

I think that alone shows you are very dedicated and determined to get this dog. Now, having said that, being determined isnt always enough. You realy should have a yard for the dog to roam in. I will be honest, I have a black lab with a small yard. But it is fenced in, and the dog park is right across the street, so I take here there a lot.

The main thing is big breeds need to have excersize, there must be a place that they can use daily to run and play.

I am suprised by the rules of barking, and that it cannot be used as a reason.. do you mean they cannot claim barking could be a problem, or do you mean if he does bark obsessivly, they dont have the right to complain? That doesnt seem right, as people have the right to live in a peaceful way.

Also, your parents need to approve of this dog and want it just as much as you, this is a must. Even though Im sure you are very responsible, you are still a child, and your parents need to take complete and full responsibility for this animal. If this is the case, and you have a place where the animal will have plenty of excersize, I wouldnt object at all. I love animals and I think if you can care for it, then you shouldnt be denied a pet, as everyone should experience that love if they can afford and handle a dog.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Unfortunately people will look down on you because you are 13. If you want to get a Shepherd and your parents agree, then do it. It's your neighbors that will have to deal with it. But remember it's at least a 13-15year commitment owning a dog.

Don't get one just to have to get rid of it in a few weeks. When I first got out of the Military in 1973, I had a German Shepherd and lived in a Apartment. He only needed the space he occupied. When we went out to go potty we exercised together. I didn't live there long, I moved into a house and have to agree it's a better situation. But here again. If you and your parents are gone. He will take up as much space in a house as he would in an apartment.

I would never leave my dog alone in the backyard. That's asking for problems.
If you would like to ask anymore questions of me. You can Email [e-mail]

Answer 3

Yes dogs do bark and unfortunately they cannot always be relied upon to not do so. For this size of dog you would need to walk it at least twice daily doing at least 3 miles each time. If left alone during the day it is likely to bark and an Alsatian barks very loudly. This disturbs neighbours and you will not always be there to hear it or attempt to control it. Training this type of dog is a specialised activity and as for training it to keep calm, how on earth do you think you will achieve this. I suggest you wait until you have your own home and no neighbours. It was very nice that you bothered to ask your neighbours though. You should then abide by their preferences, otherwise why bother to ask.

Answer 4

Are you even aware of all the care a GSD takes? First of all if "not enough space" is a reason they don't want you to have it, you should definitely not get the puppy. German Shepherds require LOTS of room to run and play. They require training, so they don't get mouthy and hurt people while playing. I think the best thing for you to do is wait until you're old enough to move out, then get a Shepherd when you live somewhere suitable.

Answer 5

Good Grief! That is a great website. It's obvious you've really put a lot of thought into this. Unfortunately this isn't a battle you can win without your parents support. You really need them to fight this battle for you. If you are this interested in dogs at this age I hope you look into careers with dogs. If you can't own your own dog try volunteering at an animal shelter or in a few years get a job at a kennel. I really hope you are able to get your dog.

Answer 6

Respect your elders.
I have GSD neighbors and they never will shut up. I hate them. The owner is never home and I'm afraid he is becoming a backyard breeder DORK. They bark entirely too much and I'm at my wit's end.
Get a lab. They don't bark unless the boogey man comes.

Answer 7

first off think of the animal....is it going to have enough space,a german shepard is a working dog,it needs to be occupied and excercised.is anyone going to be able to spend time with it,or will it be stuck in a crate all day?can you afford the vet bills,food and care.my point is think of the animal first.if you still want a dog,then find somewhere it will be better suited for a pet

Answer 8

Do you have a large fenced-in backyard? German Shepherds are large dogs that require a lot of space. A complex may not be the ideal living situation for the breed. Have you considered other breeds, that are smaller in size?

Answer 9

well although i believe that you have a great reason and seem to be a very responsible 13 year old you have to look into the rules of the complex

remember...and i am sure you know...that they need a lot of room to run...they are shepherds afterall

examine them thoroughly...you may or may not have a case here.

in my complex they dont allow 'pitbull' breeds or large breeds...but i have seen a husky around...that would be considered a large breed...i have a yorkie...

make sure that if you see large breeds in the area keep a diary of it...take it to the board

get your voice heard

Answer 10

Go to the housing authority and ask them if yur neighbors have any leg to stand on. If not, then go ahead! Just make sure that you abide by the rules so that you do not have to part with the puppy.. train it, exercise it, and keep it indoors and quiet when you're not around!