Hidden Truths About Owning a German Shepherd

Many people dream of having a loyal, protective German Shepherd as a family guard dog, but they often don’t realize the full extent of what owning one entails. These dogs are incredibly intelligent and devoted, but their high energy levels and strong protective instincts can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. German Shepherds require consistent training, mental stimulation and plenty of exercise to stay happy and well-behaved. Here are some of the things to consider, direct from the AKC, before deciding if the breed is right for you.

German Shepherd.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

HIGH ENERGY LEVELS

German Shepherds are incredibly energetic and need a lot of exercise. Daily walks, runs and playtime are paramount to keeping them happy and preventing boredom. Without enough activity, they can become destructive, chewing on furniture or digging holes. These dogs thrive in homes where they can get plenty of physical activity. Be honest about what your activity level is and what you can offer this breed.

THEY SHED A LOT

Get ready for dog hair everywhere! German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds year-round, with two major shedding seasons. Regular brushing can help manage the fur, but you’ll still find hair all over your house. Investing in a good vacuum and being diligent about grooming can help keep the shedding under control but these dogs are not for allergy sufferers or anyone not looking for additional cleaning sessions.

STRONG-WILLED AND STUBBORN

Shepherds are smart but can be quite headstrong. They need consistent training and a firm but loving hand. If they sense you’re not in charge, they’ll try to take the lead, so clear boundaries are crucial. Training sessions should be positive and engaging to keep their attention and reinforce good behavior.

NEED FOR MENTAL STIMULATION

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and need mental challenges to stay sharp, it's one of the reasons they are often used in police and military jobs. Puzzle toys, advanced training and interactive games can help keep their minds engaged and prevent them from becoming bored. Without enough mental stimulation, they might develop behavioral problems like excessive barking or chewing.

German Shepherd with hip dysplasia.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

PRONE TO HEALTH ISSUES

Unfortunately, the breed is prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia and digestive problems. Regular vet check-ups and a good diet are important to manage their health. Knowing the potential issues can help you be proactive and catch any problems early, so your dog has a long and healthy life.

PROTECTIVE INSTINCTS

These dogs have strong protective instincts and can be wary of strangers. Socialization from a young age is important to ensure they’re friendly and well-adjusted. They make excellent guard dogs but need to be taught when to switch off. Proper training can help them distinguish between real threats and normal social interactions.

LOYALTY CAN BE OVERWHELMING

German Shepherds are extremely loyal to their owners, sometimes to a fault. They may become overly attached and experience separation anxiety when left alone. Training them to be comfortable on their own is something that should be done from the start. Providing them with toys and activities can help keep them occupied when you’re not around.

Two aggressive German Shepherds.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

NOT ALWAYS GOOD WITH OTHER PETS

While they can be socialized to get along with other animals, some German Shepherds have strong prey drives and might not do well with smaller pets like cats or rabbits. Early socialization and training are key. Supervised interactions and gradual introductions can help them learn to coexist peacefully with other pets. According to the AKC, the breed standard displays a "certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships."

THEY LOVE TO WORK

Bred as working dogs, German Shepherds thrive when they have a job to do. Whether it’s herding, guarding or participating in dog sports, keeping them occupied with purposeful activities can keep them happy and healthy. Training for tasks or sports can also provide them with the much-needed mental stimulation the require.

VOCAL NATURE

If you cherish a quite household, a German Shepherd might not be the best selection. This breed can be quite vocal, often barking to communicate or alert you to something. Training them when it’s appropriate to bark can help manage the noise. Teaching them to bark on command and then to be quiet can be an effective way to control excessive barking.