Buy a companion for your journey
Here's what to consider when buying a German Shepherd:
Buying a German Shepherd puppy is usually a well-considered decision, as you want a specific type of dog. You may have owned another dog before, know your neighbor's or friend's dog, or even have owned a German Shepherd yourself. People who have had a German Shepherd, or any other breed, as a companion know what to expect. Therefore, buying a puppy, especially for first-time dog owners, should be a carefully considered decision.
The neighborhood:
It's important to consider your neighbors first. The German Shepherd is a medium-sized dog, but some neighbors might find it very large, even enormous. And it will bark, which not everyone appreciates. Hopefully, the fence is secure so you don't have to pick up your dog from the shelter too often, or so it doesn't bother others or endanger itself on roads or railways. Even a well-trained, fully grown German Shepherd can sometimes intimidate people.
Home:
Is my home suitable for a new roommate? A German Shepherd puppy can be unhappy in an apartment, just as it can be in a kennel with a garden, especially if you realize after buying it that you don't have the time for the little dog. I always say, my sofa is enough of an apartment for the dog; it just needs to be exercised and not left alone all the time. It needs companionship. This isn't just important for German Shepherds. Perhaps you're parents of young children. I think it's wonderful when a loyal German Shepherd can grow up with children. Can you manage that? And maybe you also have a cat. Do German Shepherds and cats get along? Usually, yes, but this needs to be observed. Consider this before buying! You don't want to end up having to rehome your German Shepherd or cat.
Sportiness:
Many people want to do sports with their dog. For this, the dog must be physically capable. If the dog is free of illness, this is quite possible with a German Shepherd. The German Shepherd is an all-rounder. Almost any sport is possible with them. But long walks are also a great option.
Which character traits are frequently requested:
Family dog:
This likely means he's friendly within the family, getting along well with all family members. Often, people want a dog that's easy to manage in everyday life or that's good for taking on vacation. And one that allows them to get through life comfortably without constant exercise. With proper training, any German Shepherd can become a family dog. They have the potential.
Loves children :
Families often have children of all ages. Personally, I don't know a single German Shepherd that doesn't get along with children. What's important is that the dog knows its place in the family: friend, companion, but still a dog. And this dog has to leave the children alone. This is something that can be trained. None of our dogs ever considered harming children, not even strangers' children. But they always protected them. And time and again, puppy buyers tell me how wonderful their former German Shepherds were in their families and what beautiful memories they have of them.
Therefore, it is also important to socialize puppies well with children!
