So you have decided to add a puppy or dog to your life as a family companion. I hope I can help you to understand a little more about the German Shepherd. You have the working lines and the show lines. They are different in a lot of ways. The working lines are for the most part not bred to win at shows although they are capable of doing so. Working dogs are very pleasing to look at, but maybe not as correct in conformation as the show lines. They are straighter in their angulation and their body type is built more for running as opposed to trotting. They are bred for working directed more for temperament and athletic ability. So which ever you choose the pup or dog should show intelligence, trainability, good health and stable temperament. If you choose working or show they both make excellent companions you just have to choose which is best for your family. The working lines make excellent companions, but they are a strong dog in body, mind and spirit. For the most part a working dog is more active and need a lot of attention and constant guidance as they grow. Show lines are capable of doing work to, so any German Shepherd physically and mentally capable of doing the work they were created to do should be able to participate in various disciplines and also make an excellent companion!!
German Shepherds typically are working dog and are happiest when they have a chore to do. They can be trained to do many things. TYING THESE DOGS OUT IN THE YARD OR IGNORING THEM IN THE KENNEL IS UNACCEPTABLE, AS IT WILL CREATE FRUSTRATION, BOREDOM, AND A POTENTIALLY DESTRUCTIVE DOG. German shepherds require companionship from the handler and do not do well left in isolation. Most German Shepherds make excellent family dogs. They do very well with children when raised with children. Most German Shepherds will live to be between ten and thirteen years old. They come in many colors, from solid black, black and red, black and tan, sables of different intensities. Beware before purchasing a German Shepherd that the breed does have some health problems the worse is hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will do the best they can to have lines that this has been bred out of the best that they can. The breeder should take the time to talk to you about this and to give a written guarantee to cover any problems, should they occur.
German Shepherds are a natural breed that only require occasional bathing and brushing keeping coats shiny and healthy. They are double coated with coarse outer guard hair and a soft undercoat. Guard hairs will be shed year around but especially in the spring and fall. If you do not like hair in your home or have a member of your family with allergies, then this not the dog for you. Good nutrition is essential for the breed, with pups needing extra care and attention to diet.
A sound temperament is of the utmost importance. Temperament for the most part is inherited, but good temperament can be ruined by improper handling. Early socialization is important. Many prospective buyers think they need a tough, aggressive dog, but the German Shepherd is naturally protective of its home and family.
I hope that I helped any prospective buyer to understand more about the German Shepherd, and to understand that the German Shepherd is not right for everyone as it is with any breed. you have to decide if the German Shepherd is right for you and your family. As a breeder the German Shepherd is my breed and I would have no other breed and I want to make sure my puppies go to a family where they will be loved and become a member of the family in every way. Purchasing a German Shepherd or any breed of puppy should not be taken lightly. Do your research and learn about the breeds. The worse thing anyone can do is get a puppy and then find out it was wrong for them or they do not have the time to spend with them. If your schedule does not let you have the time for a dog then do not get one. They depend on you for everything so please take the time to understand before you purchase any puppy or dog.
Judy Baker
BUCKCREEK GERMAN SHEPHERDS.
