Is a German Shepherd right for you?

Xochi at 10 weeks

A properly bred German Shepherd is truly a magnificent creature to behold. He is substantial, formidable, aloof, majestic, and powerful. He is also a large animal that requires a knowledgeable, and hardworking owner that can shape him into a functioning member of society. German Shepherds are highly intelligent, and perceptive dogs - they need to be diligently socialized, trained, and developed. GSDs require mental and physical work in order to keep them engaged and satisfied.

When bred to standard, the GSD is aloof, confident, self-assured, and attentive. GSDs are not couch potatoes or yard ornaments. They require active engagement with the handler and family. A GSD left to his own devices is liable to develop undesired behaviors and habits. If you are unwilling or unable to make a commitment to your dog, please look into lower maintenance breeds instead.

Before getting a GSD, ask yourself the following questions and take a look at the puppy questionnaire so you can make an educated decision about the breed. Remember that a dog is a 10-15 year commitment and require considerable investment on your part. My dogs will ONLY be sold to exceptional owners that will cherish their dog for the entirely of their lifetime.

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Abi (2m), Wink (3m), and Xochi (7m)

Consider the following BEFORE getting a new dog

• - Who will feed, potty, water, and exercise the dog on a daily basis? (Parents - you cannot hope that your children will "take care of it")
• -Do you have a fenced yard? If not, are you willing to take the time to travel to spacious locations so your dog can get ample exercise?
• -Does your insurance allow German Shepherds? Are there any breed restrictions in your community?
• -Do you have experience with large, working breeds? If not, are you willing to take the time to educate yourself about the breed?
• -Do you have cats, children, small pets, other dogs? Carefully evaluate your household's dynamics BEFORE considering a GSD.
• -Do you have allergies? GSDs shed A LOT!!! Are you prepared for the additional cleaning? Do you desire a pristine home?
• -Do you have hardwood floors or carpet? How will you clean and maintain these surfaces in case of messes?
• -Do you rent or own your home? Will your renter allow GSDs? Will your insurance allow GSDs?
• -Will you be experiencing any significant life changes in the next 2 years? Baby, big move, college, job change, army, etc.
• -How will you afford your new dog? Do you have savings set aside for emergencies? Emergency surgeries for conditions such as bloat 
• can cost up to 5k.
• -What will you feed your dog? Is it healthy and nutritious? Will it help your dog live a long and healthy life with reduced complications?
• -Will you crate train? Where will your new puppy sleep? How will you house break him?
• -Are you responsible? How many dogs and for how long have you had them? What happened to your previous dogs?
• -How will you vaccinate? Do you have a trusted vet?
• -What will you use for flea/tick/pests?
• -Do you like a clean and pristine yard? Will you be OK with urine stains on the lawn? Are you willing to clean up feces? Do you have a way to dispose of waste?
• -Where will the dog live? Do you have safe and secure ways to contain the dog when you are away?
• -Who will care for the dog when you are away? What will you do if you have a sudden emergency?
• -Have you made provisions for your dogs in case something happens to you? Where will they go?
• -Does your community have noise restrictions? What will you do if your puppy barks when you are away?
• -How will you socialize and train the puppy? Do you have the time necessary to raise a GSD properly?
• -Young pups chew, bite, and nip. How will you handle these behaviors?
• -If the dog has a debilitating or life-threatening condition, are you comfortable with making the decision to euthanize? Can you act in the best interest of the dog if the time comes?