Worst parts of a GSD? Controversial

Oh right! What caused the nervousness? (Not in the rescue one), was it just their nature? When did this show?

Aww how lovely

I think I just thought that there would be quite a lot of negative things, not sure why... just did

The pros most definitely outweigh any cons imo.

None of my GSDs have been destructive (other than a bit of puppy chewing).

I think it is because most breeds I ever really set my heart on... there always seems to be a few "main" reasons/things about them which is why I can't get one in the end.

I think GSD's maybe just seem "too" perfect so am waiting for someone to break the news of something horrific...

I wouldn't say this is actually a down side to them, but due to the nature of the beast, their constant attention on you and you alone, they do expect something back from you!

You can't have one of these dogs if you just "want a dog" at home, there's a lot of work involved I'd say, they're very "busy" dogs and if busy means just purely watching what you're doing then that's fine, you are their world, but they're not the type of dog who has a morning walk, then you go off to work and forget him/her for the rest of the day and you're too tired to take him out in the evening, you'd be creating huge problems for yourself, coz being such an intelligent breed, they'd find their own work to do, unlike most other breeds, who would be happy to slope off to bed in the meantime.

If you don't like training them up, then forget it. They need to have impeccable manners being the breed that they are, they could walk all over you, so people who have little confidence imo don't make good owners for these dogs, they're far too smart, they will outwit you, try it on big time, but if you are confident in the way you teach and handle them they won't even bother to have the last word. That's what I've found anyway, they don't do "soppy", they don't much care for any other people than you and your family, you'd never see a gsd go running over to an actual person for a big fuss, it's not what they're about (except George of course, but he's different, very different ).

So if you want to give up half of your life, then go get a gsd, they want you and ALL of you, ALL of the time if they can!;-)

I wouldn't say GSDs are perfect but I do believe if you do your research, find a reputable breeder who consistently
produces great dogs, you socialise your puppy extensively and positively, you give your dog boundaries, as well as plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise then they are about as perfect as any breed can be

They can also be a headache and hard work if none of the above goes to plan :?

Thanks for the fab posts!

I actually love training and do feel confident I could train a puppy up with good manners!

I will only be getting a second dog when I move out in a couple of years, hopefully by then I will have the job I want, which would mean I would either work from home or be able to get back in the middle of the day/whenever suited to walk the dogs, and then I do training with Alfie most evenings if he isn't out on another walk

LOL okay maybe perfect was the wrong word... I mean there is a couple of things I am not 100% sure about (one being their size), but then again I have read the "how much does your GSD weigh?" and some aren't that big, plus I would get a female! I just meant there hasn't been anything so far that has been bed enough to put me off

The worst thing is the amount they moult...i get fed up of hoovering BUT they are worth it!!
Duke seems pretty laid back compared to alot ive seen, as long as he gets his walks, bits of training etc he is very content in the house but if your out in the garden he will be readyto play

Mine is nervous aggressive and has been very hard work at times, and still can be. We have come such a long way though, I found it hard to cope at times as I lived, mostly alone, in Scotland with my ex. Being isolated made his nervousness worse but after moving back home, and lots of hard work, he has improved massively. He was nervous as a pup, I think its down to bad breeding, his social skills will always be a work in progress. Positive socialising from a young age is very important, and getting them used to coping with out you, which they will do just fine if you go about it the right way.

Other than that he is great! Never destructive, very adaptable. He is quite vocal and we do get tantrums but not like we used to. The moulting will drive you mental, but fluffy food and hairy drinks are well worth what you get back from a GSD!

the main reason i wont have one is the whinging

Oh wow it must be pretty bad then!

nah, easier to tune out than barking i find.

Alfie "talks" a lot not barking, but like he lifts toys and walks around whining at them for ages

Out of my past and current shepherds, only Yogi does the whiney/screamy thing when he is really excited about going out - whether it be walks/training/going in the car etc. Flame is a good watch dog in that she barks if anyone is around, but she never whinges or whines

Ahh, well whining isn't something that would put me off so I think it would be okay

Daisy and Raz don`t whinge at all. Only one of mine has been a warbler - and that was excitement.

Ahh nice

It's not whingeing anyway, it's "singing" that they do, only shepherds can do this in tune!

I am going to youtube this, I am curious now!