Is a German Shepherd Right for You? The Pros and Cons of Owning One

The German Shepherd Dog (GSD), also known as the Alsatian, originated in Germany in the late 1800s. Initially bred for herding sheep, they quickly became sought after as pets owing to their intelligence, trainability, and loyalty. While a popular choice, you need to know about the pros and cons of owning a German Shepherd before making your purchase or adopting.
Pro – One of the Most Intelligent Breed

When you picture a German Shepherd, you likely think of a muscular, hardworking dog. Their reputation as guard dogs and service animals often overshadows their intelligence. However, German Shepherds are among the cleverest dog breeds. In a 1994 study, they ranked third out of 137 breeds, just behind the Border Collie and Poodle.
Pro – Easy to Train

High intelligence and an eagerness to please make German shepherds highly trainable. Unsurprisingly, their trainability is a vital reason they excel in various roles, such as police and military. Interestingly, these dogs played an essential role in pioneering guide dog programs in the US.
Pro – A Beautiful Breed

While they have many admirable qualities, such as guards and loyalty, most people know them for their beauty. They are long, elegant dogs with thick coats and a gentle, sloping, bushy tail—a breathtaking breed indeed!
Pro – Extremely Loyal Towards Family

Building a bond with them takes time and effort, and it should begin while they are puppies. Once they develop a strong relationship, they will show an unwavering devotion to their families. By establishing yourself as a trusted leader, you’ll cultivate a companionship brimming with love, mutual respect, and loyalty.
Pro – Excellent Guard Dogs

They can be fantastic family companions but are known for their protective instincts. Born with an innate ability to guard, they remain alert and watchful, ready to defend their families from perceived threats. Their imposing size and confident demeanor often deter potential intruders and give owners a strong sense of security.
Pro – Have a Sensitive and Affectionate Nature

Do not let their large stature fool you! Surprisingly, they possess an unexpected tenderness towards their families. German Shepherds crave love and attention, showering their humans with affection. Regardless of size, they cherish cuddle sessions and appreciate kind gestures.
Pro – Manage Easily in Most Climatic Conditions

Many may not know, but German Shepherds can adapt to various climatic conditions. Their double coat is a natural insulator that regulates their body temperatures during summer and winter. Yet, it’s important to remember that no dog is invincible to extreme temperatures, and they still need protection in harsh conditions.
Con – Large Dogs

Undeniably large dogs, with males typically weighing 75-90 pounds and females 55-70 pounds, their size and strength require careful consideration, especially for those with limited living space or physical ability. Managing them in public areas also demands excessive training and control.
Con – Shedding and Grooming Needs

Due to a double coat, they tend to be notorious shedders, especially during spring and fall. They require regular brushing to manage the fur tumbleweeds and maintain a healthy shine. While this may not be ideal for those with allergies or a preference for a spotless home, consistent grooming becomes a manageable routine for many owners.
Con – Faces Health Issues

Like many large breeds, they can face health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy. Such conditions can affect their mobility and quality of life, potentially requiring veterinary care and management.
Con – Highly Energetic

From the beginning, they were bred for demanding jobs like herding. So, adequate mental stimulation is necessary for their proper training, whether it’s a brisk walk, a stimulating training session, or a fun game of fetch. While this inherent energy can be a handful, it also translates to a fun-loving and eager-to-please companion.
Con – Strong Drive for Prey

German Shepherds retain a strong prey drive, an instinct from their herding background. This drive can manifest as chasing squirrels, bikes, or even children. Although challenging, consistent training and management can help them learn appropriate behavior. Early socialization with smaller animals and controlled leash practice in outdoor environments is necessary.
Con – Can be Expensive

Prices depend on the breeder’s reputation, pedigree, and location. Expect a range of $500 to $3,000, with champion bloodlines potentially costing even more. Beyond the initial cost, consider ongoing expenses like high-quality food, regular veterinary checkups, training classes, and preventative medications.
Con – Some Bark a Lot

Some dogs are vocal breeds, expressing themselves through barks, whines, and growls. Indeed, this can be a valuable asset, alerting you to potential dangers, but your neighbors might not appreciate it. To prevent excessive noise, teach them appropriate situations for vocalizations.
Con – Prone to Destruction

As energetic dogs, they thrive on mental and physical stimulation. If these needs aren’t met, boredom can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. Moreover, their size means destructive tendencies can cause more damage.