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I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd

 
Laura Bow

User ID: 1158661
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11/19/2012 08:08 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can be certified free. Will save you time, money and some heartache. However, rescue pupps are awesome too.


[link to www.candlehillshepherds.com]
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25284379


Yes, parents can be certified free of dysplasia but in the end the only way you can be 100% sure that your dog is free of hip dysplasia is to also have the certification done on your own dog as well. However, even parents that are certified may produce a pup that has hip problems but (depending on factors, which is why it does depend on the breeder) in general, should be less likely to produce one.
 Quoting: Laura Bow


the problem is my friend breeds them, I can get one from her at a great price, but I am actually considering looking to import one from another breeder. I don't want to hurt her feelings, but I want a dog that is going to be as free and clear of hip problems as possible. I've been thinking about this for along time, and she is asking me if I want in on the next litter and I keep stalling. I know a dog is a dog and I'll fall for it no matter where is comes from, but I want to get the best I can.
 Quoting: mk ultra 5813027


Just because the pup is a bargain now, doesn't mean it will be later on. I've heard it many times before, people aren't willing to spend money on a pup because they don't think a pup should cost more than "x price". That doesn't mean you CAN'T get a good dog at a cheap price, you can, but you're stacking the odds more in your favor by going to a breeder that is reliable and does testing. Does your friend do any health checks?
Laura Bow

User ID: 1158661
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11/19/2012 08:11 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Research the Belgian Malinois. Bad ass dogs. Very smart, very agile, no hip problems, and they hit like a ton of bricks in bite work.

Make sure you know what you are getting into, though. They are dogs that like to work/play. I suggest a raw food diet, two raw chicken leg quarters a day, bone and all. Do some raw veggies as well. Crate training will be a plus.

For more help:

[link to leerburg.com]

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


Malinois are definitely not for the average pet person. Some of the Youtube videos of them are awesome though!

Anonymous Coward
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Canada
11/19/2012 08:15 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
I've had many dogs.

The best one was a female Yellow lab/ Pit Bull mix.

That loyal dog never barked once in her life at anyone. And played like a puppy till 8 years old. It was the most affectionate dog I've seen.

Had some sort of fascination with socks. redface
Anonymous Coward
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11/19/2012 08:16 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
Anonymous Coward
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11/19/2012 08:16 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Second place was Yellow lab / German Sheppard mix, male.

cool2
Anonymous Coward
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11/19/2012 08:20 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Wonderful dogs! I had one as a boy that had a hair lip. He lisped when he barked. Wooth wooth! He was such a great dog and so loyal and protective.
Laura Bow

User ID: 1158661
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11/19/2012 08:30 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella


Both of the statements can be true, some German Shepherds will have more prey drive than others. Some of mine may occasionally chase our cat but do not hurt him (they'll clean his butt like he's a puppy sometimes, eww), others cannot be around him.
Anonymous Coward
User ID: 25658088
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11/19/2012 08:31 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Research the Belgian Malinois. Bad ass dogs. Very smart, very agile, no hip problems, and they hit like a ton of bricks in bite work.

Make sure you know what you are getting into, though. They are dogs that like to work/play. I suggest a raw food diet, two raw chicken leg quarters a day, bone and all. Do some raw veggies as well. Crate training will be a plus.

For more help:

[link to leerburg.com]

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


Malinois are definitely not for the average pet person. Some of the Youtube videos of them are awesome though!


 Quoting: Laura Bow


Indeed, I always caution people to research the breed before they get one. You are absolutely right.

Our Mal will be two this November 25th.

Proper training, establishing the pack structure, and of course crate training is VERY helpful.
Nine's

User ID: 23438707
United States
11/19/2012 08:35 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
Anonymous Coward
User ID: 25658088
United States
11/19/2012 08:36 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Research the Belgian Malinois. Bad ass dogs. Very smart, very agile, no hip problems, and they hit like a ton of bricks in bite work.

Make sure you know what you are getting into, though. They are dogs that like to work/play. I suggest a raw food diet, two raw chicken leg quarters a day, bone and all. Do some raw veggies as well. Crate training will be a plus.

For more help:

[link to leerburg.com]

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


Malinois are definitely not for the average pet person. Some of the Youtube videos of them are awesome though!


 Quoting: Laura Bow


Indeed, I always caution people to research the breed before they get one. You are absolutely right.

Our Mal will be two this November 25th.

Proper training, establishing the pack structure, and of course crate training is VERY helpful.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


My dog knows that I am the pack leader. Also anytime the kids come around, his ears go back and the tale starts wagging. He is crate trained, but spends most of his day in the back yard which is about 1 acre. We raised our chickens from chicks right next to his expen/eating and rest area. This dogs prey drive is OFF the charts, but he does NOT chase or mess with the free range chickens outback one bit. We raised them side by side. He does like to play with the goats though. LOL!
Anonymous Coward
User ID: 25658088
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11/19/2012 08:40 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
 Quoting: Nine's


NEVER train a dog to be aggressive. Instead train a dog to attack on command. Don't take your puppies to dog parks. I do NOT take my adult dog, either. My dog is trained NOT to be aggressive towards other animals or humans, unless I give the command.

Shalom...
Little Miss Sunshine

User ID: 26096197
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11/19/2012 08:43 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
I picked this dog up at the animal control in our county, nine months old. Just after I arrive the police dog trainer people arrived and were trying to talk me out of taking him. They wanted him for a life of crime fighting. I didn't give-in.


This is exactly why I quit jumping my 3 year old shepherd, I read about how jumping them causes this prematurely. At two years old he could easily 16~18 ft wide canals at full sprint up in the hills. Wow he could jump. But I put a stop to the big jumping and now he jumps on his own.

Shuka



They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow

 Quoting: Mkguyver

 Quoting: Mkguyver


You have a beauuuutiful baby boy there!!! Ears are cropped perfectly. Looks like he came from a great gene pool! We havd had shepherds my whole life as well as Dobermans and Rottys. Im SOOO glad to hear you didn't give in with them wanting him for k9 training. They DO treat those beauties like robots!!
We have 4 dogs. 2 males and 2 females. 2 Shepherds, 2 Rottweilers. All are trained to protect and attack on command. They go running with me every morning, ( all4) we live on alot of acreage and my husband & his buddies built a track with a huge tabletop to jump in the woods for their dirtbikes so thats where we run. In the spring, summer and fall there will be on average around 15 guys out there riding and the dogs love to chase them!
I have found over the yrs that my females seem alot more protective and viscous when it comes to defending me in the training. The instant I say " IM GOING TO RELEASE MY DOG" .....They flip from docile to cujo!! So between them.and what Im packing I feel pretty safe. My husband is gone for weeks at a time so I have all four of them sleeping in my california king size bed with me!! LOL...They are even nice to my 16 year old cat & protect her. Definitely my kids since mine are grown.
Anonymous Coward
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11/19/2012 08:46 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
I've been thinking about getting one too. They are beautiful, intelligent dogs. I have a large fenced in back yard for them to run. I guess the only thing holding me back is although I love dogs, and have been around a lot of them I've never had a dog of my own before. My wife has though. I've also got 2 cats. Not sure how well they would get along.
Nine's

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11/19/2012 08:46 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
...


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
 Quoting: Nine's


NEVER train a dog to be aggressive. Instead train a dog to attack on command. Don't take your puppies to dog parks. I do NOT take my adult dog, either. My dog is trained NOT to be aggressive towards other animals or humans, unless I give the command.

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


That's what I said.

Edited to add: And don't do attack training on your own unless you have the ability and can make sure the dog obeys instantly, and releases EVERY time on the first command.

There have been dogs turned in to shelters because some macho guy thought he's have a protection dog and ended up with a vicious, out of control animal.

Last Edited by Nine's - IN MEMORIAM on 11/19/2012 08:50 PM
Laura Bow

User ID: 1158661
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11/19/2012 08:51 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.

 Quoting: Nine's


This. Or better yet, socialize him extensively on AND off your property. German Shepherds are smart and should be able to pick up on your own cues as to when you're answering the door if the person is expected or not. To have a dog immediately attack anyone as long as they're on the property? Yikes, sounds like a lawsuit regardless and unfortunately even if the dog is in the right it can be "in the wrong" in some states.
Laura Bow

User ID: 1158661
United States
11/19/2012 08:53 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
...


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
 Quoting: Nine's


NEVER train a dog to be aggressive. Instead train a dog to attack on command. Don't take your puppies to dog parks. I do NOT take my adult dog, either. My dog is trained NOT to be aggressive towards other animals or humans, unless I give the command.

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


That's what I said.

Edited to add: And don't do attack training on your own unless you have the ability and can make sure the dog obeys instantly, and releases EVERY time on the first command.

There have been dogs turned in to shelters because some macho guy thought he's have a protection dog and ended up with a vicious, out of control animal.
 Quoting: Nine's


I'd go a step further and say that most people do not need an attack trained dog, just one that is well bred, well trained and properly socialized.
CigarTigher

User ID: 13090071
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11/19/2012 08:53 PM

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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They are really smart animals.
Nine's

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11/19/2012 08:55 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
...


Please only get this dog if you can give it lots of exercise and stimulation. They are great family dogs but have to be well integrated as one of the family. You will need a firm hand also with this breed they are highly intelligent and need a lot of training to be healthy and happy. They are working dogs and not ones to sit around the house doing nothing.

They are not good with small animals and will chase and kill etc.

Other then that best dog I have ever had.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 26365184


You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.

 Quoting: Nine's


This. Or better yet, socialize him extensively on AND off your property. German Shepherds are smart and should be able to pick up on your own cues as to when you're answering the door if the person is expected or not. To have a dog immediately attack anyone as long as they're on the property? Yikes, sounds like a lawsuit regardless and unfortunately even if the dog is in the right it can be "in the wrong" in some states.
 Quoting: Laura Bow


Yes, most states have a clause that amounts to any "public service" sector has a right to access to your home. Mail delivery, UPS, meter readers, etc. fall under the clause in my state.

Last Edited by Nine's - IN MEMORIAM on 11/19/2012 08:58 PM
Nine's

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11/19/2012 08:58 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
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In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
 Quoting: Nine's


NEVER train a dog to be aggressive. Instead train a dog to attack on command. Don't take your puppies to dog parks. I do NOT take my adult dog, either. My dog is trained NOT to be aggressive towards other animals or humans, unless I give the command.

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


That's what I said.

Edited to add: And don't do attack training on your own unless you have the ability and can make sure the dog obeys instantly, and releases EVERY time on the first command.

There have been dogs turned in to shelters because some macho guy thought he's have a protection dog and ended up with a vicious, out of control animal.
 Quoting: Nine's


I'd go a step further and say that most people do not need an attack trained dog, just one that is well bred, well trained and properly socialized.
 Quoting: Laura Bow


I agree.
Anonymous Coward
User ID: 25658088
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11/19/2012 09:00 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
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You can train a shepherd to do whatever you want him to do.
My shepherd does not kill small animals. I have a bunny that runs around him and he is not interested. Once he found a baby oppossum looked dead and was dripping wet from being in my shepherds mouth. The little guy played dead for few minutes then was fine, ran off wet but not hurt. My guess was the shepherd found him in the yard and brought him to the backdoor.

Get a male if you want him to protect more than one person and you want a little larger dog. Female if you want her loyal just to you and a little smaller / agile.

One piece of advise, early on train him about his food dish. My dog was trained to never touch his food until he is told. He will just sit and watch his dinner until I tell him ok. Over the years it has really been great especially if the kids have food or there are smaller animals around eating. He just waits looking at me to give my permission to eat.

Remember a shepherd will not be happy if he doesn't have a job to do. That's all this breed lives for is to have a job. He will try to do anything he may think you would want him to do, so you must make sure he has his special place and certain jobs for him to be happy.
A job can be to protect, guard a gate, carry a backpack, walk certain areas or not walk in certain areas. Even be taught to protect the small animals like my shepherd.

You have to train them young and they will never forget. Last word of advise, train him to go after somebody once they enter your house NEVER just outside your front door. Have him sit inside the house and not charge outside the front door. This way anybody coming to the door like UPS will not be greeted by a vicious dog. Learned that the hard way and was sued by a stupid ass FedEx guy. Cost me Twenty Thousand to fight a 3 million lawsuit after my dog charged out the front door when my daughter wasn't being careful. Expensive lesson. All my dog did was grab his arm and held on, but broke the skin. Here California that is a good way for somebody to make a lot of money.
 Quoting: ella

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
 Quoting: Nine's


NEVER train a dog to be aggressive. Instead train a dog to attack on command. Don't take your puppies to dog parks. I do NOT take my adult dog, either. My dog is trained NOT to be aggressive towards other animals or humans, unless I give the command.

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


That's what I said.

Edited to add: And don't do attack training on your own unless you have the ability and can make sure the dog obeys instantly, and releases EVERY time on the first command.

There have been dogs turned in to shelters because some macho guy thought he's have a protection dog and ended up with a vicious, out of control animal.
 Quoting: Nine's


I know, that is what you said. I was just adding. :)
Anonymous Coward
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11/19/2012 09:06 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Those dogs are cute.
Mazza

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11/19/2012 09:06 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They're great.
I cant eat a whole one by myself but...
tomato
Nine's

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11/19/2012 09:07 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
...

In ANY state. It's why it's a good idea to carry liability insurance.

Don't you think it would be better to train him/have him trained for personal protection and to only attack on command, rather than when someone enters the house? IMO it's not good to have a dog be the one deciding who to attack or when to do it.
 Quoting: Nine's


NEVER train a dog to be aggressive. Instead train a dog to attack on command. Don't take your puppies to dog parks. I do NOT take my adult dog, either. My dog is trained NOT to be aggressive towards other animals or humans, unless I give the command.

Shalom...
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


That's what I said.

Edited to add: And don't do attack training on your own unless you have the ability and can make sure the dog obeys instantly, and releases EVERY time on the first command.

There have been dogs turned in to shelters because some macho guy thought he's have a protection dog and ended up with a vicious, out of control animal.
 Quoting: Nine's


I know, that is what you said. I was just adding. :)
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 25658088


Thank you. Didn't want someone to think I was suggesting to train to be aggressive. hf
Nine's

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11/19/2012 09:15 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
They can have hip dysplasia, among other health issues, which is why it's important to go to a good breeder who knows what they are doing. German Shepherds are good dogs though when properly bred and raised. See my avatar :)
 Quoting: Laura Bow


^that's what its called!


I love your AV, okay I am getting excited again.

I just want to make sure I make the right decision. Its been years since my last dog passed away and I feel like I can love another dog again.
 Quoting: mk ultra 5813027


A poem and best wishes to you and your future friend. Wishing you many years of companionship, respect, and love. hf

The stately German Shepherd-
Protective, bold and smart,
Looked into my eyes one day
And quickly stole my heart.

Courageous and endearing,
A favorite of its breed,
So proud and yet so loving,
A steadfast friend indeed.

Caring disposition,
Faithful to the core-
If you have a Shepherd’s love,
You cannot want for more.

- Author Unknown
SilverPatriot

User ID: 10518597
United States
11/19/2012 09:30 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
If your friend breeds German Shepherds he should have them tested for Hip Dysplasia and OFA hip certification rating of excellent or good and although no guarantee the puppy you purchase will be free of the disease at least the chances are lower.

Methods of Hip Certification
[link to www.shilohshepherds.info]

Welcome to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
[link to www.offa.org]
SilverPatriot

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11/19/2012 09:45 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
I've been thinking about getting one too. They are beautiful, intelligent dogs. I have a large fenced in back yard for them to run. I guess the only thing holding me back is although I love dogs, and have been around a lot of them I've never had a dog of my own before. My wife has though. I've also got 2 cats. Not sure how well they would get along.
 Quoting: Anonymous Coward 27936947


As long as you bring a puppy into your home, the cats will simply be part of the family and they will graciously take training from the cats. I once brought a 5 week old abandoned German Shepherd/Rottweiler cross home from the pound and my nurturing old calico cat grabbed him as she would a kitten and proceeded to clean him when he tried to free himself she slapped him silly without claws.

The Anatolian Shepherd (my avatar) got away with much until he was bout 14 weeks when my cats introduced him to claws and became educated.
the bear...
User ID: 27499712
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11/19/2012 10:00 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Check into a GSD/Wolf hybrid...
Mine is the best in the world! (I'll leave it at that and spare you all the praise I could give this hybrid.)

Besides that, the only advice I have for you is to give them plenty of protein and calcium as a pup and make sure you can afford to feed them high quality food on a daily basis...
Anonymous Coward
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11/19/2012 10:35 PM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Great dogs. I've owned one and have had extensive experience with two others. 2 germans 1 malinois. All 3 highly intelligent and easy 2 train. Only negative i found with all 3 was a high amount of separation anxiety. One ate crates for breaskfast, one paced and cried, and the last when chained to a cemented swingset w/slide dug n drug it from backyard to frontyard.

One other thing i've noticed about shepherds is constant pacing but that could of been from lack of proper exercise. Excessive energy in a dog usually turns out negative imo.
Laura Bow

User ID: 1158661
United States
11/20/2012 07:42 AM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
Check into a GSD/Wolf hybrid...
Mine is the best in the world! (I'll leave it at that and spare you all the praise I could give this hybrid.)

Besides that, the only advice I have for you is to give them plenty of protein and calcium as a pup and make sure you can afford to feed them high quality food on a daily basis...
 Quoting: the bear... 27499712


I don't know if hybrids are legal to own without permits in some states?
mk ultra (OP)
User ID: 5813027
United States
11/20/2012 09:31 AM
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Re: I'm thinking of getting a german shepherd
wow, thanks for all the good info on this thread, I am becoming more sure that a german shepherd is what I want.

I am really enjoying this process, I've been without a dog for too long. hf





GLP