German Shepherd Dogs

German shepherd dogs are manufactured dogs. They were originally developed from farm dogs and prick-eared herding dogs of the late 1800’s. They received their German heritage from the founder of the first German Shepherd Dog club, Max von Stehpanitz. They were originally meant to fulfill roles in police and military work.

As with any other breeds of dogs, German shepherd dogs have their positive and negative attributes. German shepherds, on the positive side, are very good companion and work dogs. They bond thoroughly to their owner and will remain loyal until death. They are also excellent to train and will retain more information than many other breeds of dog. On the negative side, many breeders have failed to consider the health of the dogs they are breeding, which has resulted in poor mental and physical soundness amongst some German shepherds. As well, German shepherds are very territorial. Strangers to the dog often find this out quickly, although even family and owners can get a taste of this if conditions are right.

German Shepherd dogs can serve in many areas of human society. Besides being great human companions, they are great for herding, tracking, guiding the blind and protection.

But choosing a German shepherd as a pet is not a decision to be made casually. It is a high-maintenance animal that needs to be a part of a loving and attentive family. Just as importantly, the owner needs to have confidence that he or she can control the animal, as German Shepherds are a willful breed that will not hesitate to control the household if allowed to. Their high energy level also requires a lot of time outside and a lot of activity.

The future of German shepherd dogs is on solid footing. With their loyal and obedient nature, their strength of character and their protective attitude, pet owners will continue to choose them as family members.