What are the "must consider" points about German Shepherds?

I'm thinking of getting a German Shepherd X pup from a rescue centre. It will be joining a medium sized mixed breed female and two cats.


Apart from the obvious love and attention, firm handling and lots of excercise, what do I need to consider specifically about this type of dog?


The dog I have already is a five year old, who has the run of the large garden.


I'm thinking it may be best to get a male pup ?


As we have a holiday rental apartment in the grounds, the new dog will need to allow strangers onto the property. The dog I already have has a good bark when someone comes to the gate, but is happy for them to come in and this works well for us.


As I live in Spain all our doors tend to be open during the day and the animals come and go as they please, within the garden which is secure, then the dog sleeps inside at night.


I want to be as sure as I can that the dog will fit into our situation and would appreciate your thoughts. Thanks.

What are the "must consider" points about German Shepherds?
They get bad legs when they get older and so are not as active.......but they do make great pets and are very friendly
Reply:i have GS mix and we have people coming and going looking a the foals. my mix will friendly meet the new comers with a warm and friendly bark. some back up a step because of his size.but at 7 he is still like a puppy. he also sleeps in bed with use but can take over the bed when he wants. as for hop trouble have you vet check your "pup".they can tell you if it could have trouble later on. if so most of the time you have to give them a pill 1 to 2 times a day, and will live a full and happy life (i know mine has trouble). hope this helps alitte
Reply:I agree with Pam.


Also,you should be able to see the dogs health record from the shelter,if they do in Spain like they do ( in Texas at least) in the U.S. they have to give all incoming animals a checkup when it gets there.Plus,a good trainer can teach the dog to growl instead of barking if you so desire or require it.I've had 9 GGS's so far,still have 3,8 bought and imported from Germany 1 rescued from a shelter in Texas,only 1 had a hip problem "so far" and it didn't start untill she was 10.As far as shedding goes,you'll get plenty of arm exersice,lol,but they ARE worth it.The GSD are a very family/pack oriontated breed,and once they feel welcomed and get comfortable they will do anything they can to make you happy.For example,Cobra,the best K9 I ever had to work with,she would go to work with me,do what was needed there.Or we would go to a school and she would let the little kids rough-house with her and she loved it,and when we got home she turned into momma's little girl and forgot about me,lol.But she was a rare find.What I'm trying to say is,with love and care the dog with adapt it's self to your needs and learn what is and is not wanted from you. I wish you good luck.
Reply:A GS will need a good sized yard, they're pretty energetic dogs. They also love to bark and dig holes, so be prepared. Also, hip-displasia is an issue with GS.





They are quite protective, but are fine if their owner is there to greet strangers. So if you're not there when strangers come to the apartment, a GS will bark it's bloody head off, and not necessarily in a "happy to see you" bark.
Reply:They are a Working breed. Without training and exercise, they can be overbearing and unruly.





With proper training, adequate exercise, being allowed to be a family member and not just left in the yard, they make fantastic family companions.





If you have a female adult dog, I would recommend a male pup, however, a female / female pairing is usually ok too. Your older female will teach them to respect her. With stranger coming and going, socialize the new pup with all that come around.
Reply:I have a GS mix and I'll tell you that they SHED like CRAZY. Be prepared.