German shepherd dogs?
Has anyone had a german shepherd as a pup or from an adult? Were they easy or difficult to train? and affectionate pets? any information would be great.
Answers:
Hi Missylu
Heres a site i found for you, it gives you all the information you will need
http://www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk/.
Good Luck
my german shep cross is a big ole ball of fuss
I absolutely adore GSDs. they are and always have been my favourite dogs. They have a bad press as being aggressive, but when trained and handled properly they are loving and affectionate. They can be very protective but as far as I'm concerned that's not a bad thing. A dog that chooses to help and protect you is a dog that respects you.
I grew up with German Sheppard's. they were FANTASTIC pets and guard dogs. We had 3 all of them about a year old when we got them. BUT each had it's own personality we found that one of them was a little difficult. The other two were fantastic. My bother could do ANYTHING to the dog when he was really little as she would not harm him at all. I would recommend them if you have the time to exercise them properly.
I have a five year old german shepherd, and we just got a puppy, too, who is now 3 months old. He has been INCREDIBLY easy to train, he is very well behaved already at 3 months old. My older dog, the five year old, is absolutely wonderful – he is affectionate, completely well behaved, totally aware of his size and very graceful. The puppy is crate trained and loves that, he has learned to sit, to greet people by sitting (rather than jumping on freaking out), he always asks to go out, he stays right by my side leash or not, and always answers when called. At only 3 months old, this is really impressive (as I had a weimerainer before, bad girl). I would highly suggest a german shepherd, so long as they are exercised and trained they are wonderful pets.
I had a rescue GSD, he was 7 years old, I was worried as at the time I had a very young son, he was an absolute treasure though, fiercely protective of me and my son in particular, he had a recall problem at first, but after 3-4 months training he was ok. They are very intelligent dogs, but need lots of interaction, dont like being left alone and need quite a bit of exercise. I used to walk twice for 45 mins each.
Sadly, he died a few months back. Broke my heart!
I haven't had a geman shepherd in years, but to answer your question they are as difficult to train as any other dog is. You must be consistent with any dog. They are also as affectionate to you as you are to them. And very protective of the family.
We had two a boy and a girl two years apart in age.
She was great loving well behaved once out of puppy hood gentle but very easily wound up would trust her with kids as long as there not roudy very bad gard dog too soft died last year age 10
He is 9 and still messes on the floor good gard dog very vocal also very lonely now on his own also would trust with kids as long as not roudy very teritorial
They are great dogs. A very easy dog to train. Will be very loyal to his family and make a great companion.
I own 1 German shepherd and 2 other shepherd breeds. German shepherds make great pets, however, before getting one, research the breed. They can be obstinate and dominant. If you get one, obedience training is a must. Once this is established, your GSD will be your best friend for life. They are very smart and training can be easy if you are consistant with it. Starting from a pup is the easiest way but if you get an adult, make sure it is one that has had basic obedience already. The GSD is the best dog I have ever owned. He is loving, protective, has a wonderful personality and I will always enjoy my GSD.
I have included a link regarding more information on this breed.
This is the second question about breeds (at least) that you've asked in the past few minutes. You might actually want to cut to the chase. Go to the library and get a book called The Right Dog for You. It lists the more common breeds and rates them for affection, trainablility, how much work to groom, how much exercise they need, cold vs hot climate, etc. It will really help a lot.
I've found that many of the people giving their "advice" on this site don't know whta they are talking about. Their opinions are based on experience with one dog of the type, or they think you should get one because "it's cute!"
You are committing to an animal for as much as 15-20 years, so you should do more reliable research than that.
And yes, usually GSDs are very trainable, which is why they are used for police, rescue and guide dogs. They can be very affectionate, but tend to prefer one person in the family over the rest. They were originally bred to herd sheep, so they have a strong work ethic and like to have something to do. Very active and large. Drawbacks include their popularity which leads to a lot of poorly breed specimens with hip displaysia and other genetic physical and mental faults. Avoid buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills. Go with a recommended breeder referred to you by experts in the GSD fancy. Another drawback, GSDs tend to have this distinctive whine when they get excited. I find it VERY annoying, but that's just me.
german shepheard are great dogs they make a good family pet! they are also very protective dogs when they are old so they will look after you!
As for training goes they are easy too train! But it will be a long process!
they are aslo a working dog ..
I have no experience of GSD ownership myself, but there are a lot of Breed Clubs whose members do. These people will have considerable experience and will probably be able to advise you better than most.
ALLERTONSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs T Hunter. Tel No: 01748 812251
BIRMINGHAM & DISTRICT GSD ASSOC. Sec. Mrs Hood. Tel No: 01992 457615
BOLTON & DISTRICT GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs C Morrison. Tel No. 0161 368 4928
BRITISH ASSOC FOR GSDS. Sec. Mrs K Dunkason. Tel No: 02380 263999
BRITISH GSD TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Mrs A Weeks. Tel No: 01630 638540
CLYDE VALLEY GSD CLUB. Sec. Ms J Cathie. Tel No: Not available, please contact the Kennel Club.
CREWE & NORTH STAFFS GSD CLUB. Sec. Ms A Doran. Tel No: 01782 388402
DERBYSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Miss P Roe. Tel No: 01142 336262
FIFE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs H Christie. Tel No: 01307 466373
GSD CLUB OF THE UNITED KINGDOM. Sec. Mrs J Leadbetter. Tel No: 01388 730111
GSD CLUB OF BRISTOL. Sec. Mrs L Dodds. Tel No: 0117 957 3925
GSD CLUB OF DEVON. Sec. Miss S Tucker. Tel No: 01626 833260
GSD CLUB OF ESSEX. Sec. Mrs S Rankin. Tel No: 01708 342194
GSD CLUB OF HERTFORDSHIRE. Sec. Mrs J Green. Tel No: 01438 832525
GSD CLUB OF KENT. Sec. Mrs J Burton. Tel No: 01622 873122
GSD CLUB OF NORTHERN IRELAND. Sec. Ms J Allen. Tel No: none available, please contact the Kennel Club for further information
GSD CLUB OF SCOTLAND. Sec. Mrs E Young. Tel No: 01292 521129
GSD CLUB OF SUFFOLK. Sec. Mrs M McCrae. Tel No: 01473 719514
GSD CLUB OF WALES. Sec. Mrs S Evans. Tel No: 029 2021 9253
GSD LEAGUE OF GB. Sec. Miss C Lister. Tel No: 01630 638540
GRAMPIAN GSD ASSOC. Ms Dawson. Tel No: 01224 848201
HEADS OF THE VALLEY GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs M Davies. Tel No: 01443 412975
HUMBERSIDE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs Bryant. Tel No: not available, please contact the Kennel Club for further information
ICENI GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs Tidy. Tel No: 01473 310461
LEICESTERSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs D Walgate. Tel No: 0116 222970
LINCOLNSHIRE GSD & ALL BREEDS TRAINING SOC. Sec. Mrs Halford. Tel No: 01522 543806
LOWLAND COUNTIES ALSATIAN TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Mrs E Port. Tel No: 01698 843555
MIDLAND COUNTIES GSD ASSOC. Sec. Mrs Macdougall. Tel No: 01636 813764
NORFOLK GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs J Mann. Tel No: 01603 754713
NORTH EASTERN GSD CLUB. Sec. Ms S Hall. Tel No: 0191 241 1096
NORTH WALES ALSATIAN CLUB. Sec. Mrs C Wilson - 01407 840486
NORTH YORKSHIRE & SOUTH DURHAM GSD CLUB. Sec Ms Ingham. Tel No: Contact the Kennel Club for further information
NORTHERN ALSATIAN AND ALL BREEDS TRAINING SOC. Sec. Mrs J Cookson. Tel No: 01457 872376
NORTHUMBERLAND & DURHAM GSD TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Mrs A Newsham. Tel No: 01325 300686
PRESTON & FYLDE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs A Height. Tel No: 01942 867010
REEDYFORD DOG TRAINING AND GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs J Foster, 21, Wellhead, Vinehall, Trawder, Nr Colne, Lancashire BB8 8BW
SHEFFIELD GSD SOCIETY. Sec. Mrs A Hardy. Tel No: 01777 703417
SOUTH OF SCOTLAND GSD AND ALL BREEDS TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Miss E Bonthron. Tel No: 0131 334 3938
SOUTH WESTERN GSD CLUB. Sec. Miss S J Kozhevar. Tel No: 01963 362699
SOUTH YORKSHIRE ALSATIAN ASSOC. Sec. Mr R Brandon. Tel No. 01302 721015
SOUTHERN GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG CLUB. Sec. Mrs V Kimber. Tel No: 01992 301585
TYNE VALLEY GSD CLUB. Mrs L Whales. Tel No: 01207 282801
WEST YORKSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs B Trafford. Tel No: 0113 2572067
Told you there were a lot! Depending on your circumstances you may want to rescue one. There's a list of breed rescues below:
German Shepherd Rescue
Jayne Shenstone, Auchterarder, Perth
Tel: 01764 664894 Fax: 01764 664909 Email: info@germanshepherdrescue.co.u.
www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk
German Shepherd Dog Welfare Fund
Mrs D Lidlow - Secretary, Grays, Essex. Tel: 01375 840251
Mrs J Harrison, SW Essex. Tel: 01375 405589
G.S.D. 2000 Rescue and Re-home
Green Moor, Holsworthy Beacon, Devon, EX22 7ND
Tel: 01626 879086 Email: gsd2000@onetel.net.uk
Lancashire German Shepherd Rescue
Ted Kewley 07754 156189 or 01772 633860
Janice Hill 07742 277304 or 1772 460799
ted_kewley@yahoo.com
Maggie's Pet Rescue
Pitsea, Essex. Tel: 01268 559811. Email: maggie@petrescue.wanadoo.co.uk
Northern German Shepherd Dog Welfare
Mr & Mrs C J & I Bull, Stamford Bridge, York. Tel: 01759 371531
Mr Mrs & Miss Jones, Driffield, East Yorkshire. Tel: 01964 542558
Second Chances German Shepherd Rescue
Carol Tritschler, Secretary,
Caris, Shore Road, Cove, By Helensburgh, G84 0NP
Tel: 01436 842042 or 01368 864550
Email: admin@second-chances.com www.second-chances.com
Vigil - German Shepherd Dog Rescue
Mrs Garnham, Surrey & SW London. Tel: 020 8546 4943
Email: garbo.garnham@virgin.net
Mrs J Parker, Guildford, Surrey. Tel: 01483 503205
Mrs S Gibbons, Haywards Heath, West Sussex. Tel: 01444 453302
Mr R Schmidt, Teddington, Middx Tel: 0208 940 4253
Email: rod@vigilgsdrescue.freeserve.c.
Ms K Shields, Buckley, Surrey, Tel: 07739 707727
Email:shepherds.walk@ntlworld..
www.vigilgsdrescue.org
Have you heard of Joyce Stranger? She's an author who has written lots of animal story books - not just for children but for adults too - she's also an animal behaviourist who has been heavily involved in dog training & has owned several German Shepherds & has written non fiction about them - the joys & pitfalls & how she got along training them.
She's very enjoyable to read . I'm sure that if you could get hold of any of her books then they would be a great help to you. Both before & after you got a German Shepherd.
I've found a website about her - that lists all her non fiction books about her German Shepherds & other dogs - it also gives more information about dog training etc. The link is below.
Your local library may have them or be able to order them for you. Or you may be able to buy them on Amazon or eBay. Oh & on the site it says that you may be able to order them directly from the author.
Hope that this helps .
They are lovely dogs, very loyal and loving and easy to train. after all why would the police use them if it took them years to pick up the simple things!
As with any dog, it also depends on how you bring them up any breed can turn nasty with the wrong attention, or for that matter some dogs are just not too pleasent, just like people!
Ive bred German Shepherds for years, trained them, study the bloodlines and genetics of the breed, and the typical German Shepherd Dog is loyal and affectionate and very easy to train. Dogs with American bloodlines in their pedigrees usually are easier for a novice owner to work with, than most German bloodline dogs, because many German dogs tend to be more energetic and dominant, and can sometimes be too active to be good house dogs.
Socialization is very important in the German Shepherd Dog. The more a German Shepherd puppy experiences people, places, things, etc, positively, the more confident and stable the dog will be. The Art of Raising a Puppy, a book by the Monks of New Skete, is EXCELLENT to read for learning how to work with a German Shepherd Dog and show them what you want, in a way that the dog can understand. It also covers the stages of mental development in a puppy. German Shepherd puppies go through two stages of development when they will act shy, and people often aren't aware that those stages are normal and don't know how to deal with the way a dog may act when going through those stages.
The German Shepherd Dog wants to please the owner and wants to be with you. Whenever a dog of mine escaped the kennel, he/she wouldn't leave but would come running to the house, looking for a way to come in to be with me, That is typical of the breed. However, you do have to earn the dog's respect. Like a 3 year old child, the German Shepherd will sometimes test you to see what it can get away with, and you have to firmly but wisely show the dog that you run the house and he doesn't.
Heres the link to the general information article I wrote when I was actively breeding the GSD.
http://www.angelfire.com/in3/gsd/newpupp.
This article deals with housebreaking and other aspects of training a GSD to live in the house.
http://www.angelfire.com/in3/gsd/pottytr.
The below link goes to my GSD coat and color genetics website. There is information on that site too, about GSD development.
http://www.geocities.com/sahiela2.
There are several good forums on the breed online. Here is the link to one I often visit and contribute to.
http://www.germanshepherds.com/ubbthread.
There is also a good yahoo group on German Shepherds, GSDGenetics.
i love german shepherds and my friend has one and he is 1 1/2 yrs old and he ways 120lbs. hes friendly. and very cute
They are easy to train..but hard to socialise..they are very similar to wolves that they need extra special care with socialising as they are prone to either become nervous or aggressive..they are not a novice dog.Best left to the experts..But if well trained and socialised.they make great family pets. Just check all the lines the dog is from for any agresiveness or nervousness..if there is any..then stay away.
I have a german sheperd who is two and a half and is very affectionate. I have had since he was a puppy and we bonded the first week. But you have to be good with dogs because they can be a handful when there puppies. My dog was very easy to train he knows how to play fetch, sit, lay down, give high fives,and dance, and it didn't take that long. German sheperds are very protective though. I consider it a good thing but you might have your own opinion. They do tend to think they are the boss when they get about 2 though. But as long as you show them that there not then you will be fine.
Hi. we had one from birth, he was lovely, he was never nasty with the family only with other people and we never taught him that,he would pretect us and he would pretect the car too.
I really think you should take them training its worth it,theres some good dog club about.
Best of luck with him.
i have 2 G.S.D. they are both as daft as a bottle of pop, and they learnt things really quick, and they are very obedient. they are also great guard dogs, and are great pals!
they are intelligent dogs but with a strong guarding instinct which must be channelled if you don't want a dog who lunges and tries to bite people. They are very affectionate towards their owners. Too affectionate sometimes as they suffer emotionally if left alone and away from their owner. They can suffer seperation anxiety. Go to training classes. Be aware that once they are adults, you will need to be able to execise the dog properly. They need off the lead galloping once a day. You will also have to get used to brushing properly as they shed way more than any other breed I have fostered.
It's not a breed I can own although I have fostered a few. They are too clingy and inclined to want to guard for my liking.
I have had two german shepherd dogs, one was a puppy 12 weeks old, and the other was a 2 year old rescue dog. I am going to get another GSD soon.
I absolutely am besotted with this gorgeous breed, they do say that once you have owned a GSD, you never want any other breed of dog again, and its true.
They are easy to train, i.e. Guide Dogs for the Blind and the police train them, and they are so affectionate, loving and loyal, you really don't want to thinks about any other breed.
When you are walking down the road with them, you feel so proud that they are with you and feel so smug that you own them, especially when you see other dog owners with their dogs, you look at them and think that your dog is definitely much prettier and well behavoured than their dog.
So yes, yes, yes, a German Shepherd dog from a puppy is good, but a rescue adult is fantastic, they just want loving homes to take them away from the harsh kennels.
my mum has one and hes brillaint and obedient. dont police use gsd,s alot they used to use gsd,s all the time but now they use other breeds to , so i guess they must be easily trained , good listeners & love to please
I have a seven month old german shepherd that I have had for about 4 months. He is great! Very easy to train, sweet, loyal, wonderful with kids and other pets (dogs, cats, mice.everything so far). He is about 75lbs right now and still growing.
our local police have these dogs, good chasers, good biters and good at ripping off legs. be a great companion for your old mum.
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Answers:
Hi Missylu
Heres a site i found for you, it gives you all the information you will need
http://www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk/.
Good Luck
my german shep cross is a big ole ball of fuss
I absolutely adore GSDs. they are and always have been my favourite dogs. They have a bad press as being aggressive, but when trained and handled properly they are loving and affectionate. They can be very protective but as far as I'm concerned that's not a bad thing. A dog that chooses to help and protect you is a dog that respects you.
I grew up with German Sheppard's. they were FANTASTIC pets and guard dogs. We had 3 all of them about a year old when we got them. BUT each had it's own personality we found that one of them was a little difficult. The other two were fantastic. My bother could do ANYTHING to the dog when he was really little as she would not harm him at all. I would recommend them if you have the time to exercise them properly.
I have a five year old german shepherd, and we just got a puppy, too, who is now 3 months old. He has been INCREDIBLY easy to train, he is very well behaved already at 3 months old. My older dog, the five year old, is absolutely wonderful – he is affectionate, completely well behaved, totally aware of his size and very graceful. The puppy is crate trained and loves that, he has learned to sit, to greet people by sitting (rather than jumping on freaking out), he always asks to go out, he stays right by my side leash or not, and always answers when called. At only 3 months old, this is really impressive (as I had a weimerainer before, bad girl). I would highly suggest a german shepherd, so long as they are exercised and trained they are wonderful pets.
I had a rescue GSD, he was 7 years old, I was worried as at the time I had a very young son, he was an absolute treasure though, fiercely protective of me and my son in particular, he had a recall problem at first, but after 3-4 months training he was ok. They are very intelligent dogs, but need lots of interaction, dont like being left alone and need quite a bit of exercise. I used to walk twice for 45 mins each.
Sadly, he died a few months back. Broke my heart!
I haven't had a geman shepherd in years, but to answer your question they are as difficult to train as any other dog is. You must be consistent with any dog. They are also as affectionate to you as you are to them. And very protective of the family.
We had two a boy and a girl two years apart in age.
She was great loving well behaved once out of puppy hood gentle but very easily wound up would trust her with kids as long as there not roudy very bad gard dog too soft died last year age 10
He is 9 and still messes on the floor good gard dog very vocal also very lonely now on his own also would trust with kids as long as not roudy very teritorial
They are great dogs. A very easy dog to train. Will be very loyal to his family and make a great companion.
I own 1 German shepherd and 2 other shepherd breeds. German shepherds make great pets, however, before getting one, research the breed. They can be obstinate and dominant. If you get one, obedience training is a must. Once this is established, your GSD will be your best friend for life. They are very smart and training can be easy if you are consistant with it. Starting from a pup is the easiest way but if you get an adult, make sure it is one that has had basic obedience already. The GSD is the best dog I have ever owned. He is loving, protective, has a wonderful personality and I will always enjoy my GSD.
I have included a link regarding more information on this breed.
This is the second question about breeds (at least) that you've asked in the past few minutes. You might actually want to cut to the chase. Go to the library and get a book called The Right Dog for You. It lists the more common breeds and rates them for affection, trainablility, how much work to groom, how much exercise they need, cold vs hot climate, etc. It will really help a lot.
I've found that many of the people giving their "advice" on this site don't know whta they are talking about. Their opinions are based on experience with one dog of the type, or they think you should get one because "it's cute!"
You are committing to an animal for as much as 15-20 years, so you should do more reliable research than that.
And yes, usually GSDs are very trainable, which is why they are used for police, rescue and guide dogs. They can be very affectionate, but tend to prefer one person in the family over the rest. They were originally bred to herd sheep, so they have a strong work ethic and like to have something to do. Very active and large. Drawbacks include their popularity which leads to a lot of poorly breed specimens with hip displaysia and other genetic physical and mental faults. Avoid buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills. Go with a recommended breeder referred to you by experts in the GSD fancy. Another drawback, GSDs tend to have this distinctive whine when they get excited. I find it VERY annoying, but that's just me.
german shepheard are great dogs they make a good family pet! they are also very protective dogs when they are old so they will look after you!
As for training goes they are easy too train! But it will be a long process!
they are aslo a working dog ..
I have no experience of GSD ownership myself, but there are a lot of Breed Clubs whose members do. These people will have considerable experience and will probably be able to advise you better than most.
ALLERTONSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs T Hunter. Tel No: 01748 812251
BIRMINGHAM & DISTRICT GSD ASSOC. Sec. Mrs Hood. Tel No: 01992 457615
BOLTON & DISTRICT GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs C Morrison. Tel No. 0161 368 4928
BRITISH ASSOC FOR GSDS. Sec. Mrs K Dunkason. Tel No: 02380 263999
BRITISH GSD TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Mrs A Weeks. Tel No: 01630 638540
CLYDE VALLEY GSD CLUB. Sec. Ms J Cathie. Tel No: Not available, please contact the Kennel Club.
CREWE & NORTH STAFFS GSD CLUB. Sec. Ms A Doran. Tel No: 01782 388402
DERBYSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Miss P Roe. Tel No: 01142 336262
FIFE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs H Christie. Tel No: 01307 466373
GSD CLUB OF THE UNITED KINGDOM. Sec. Mrs J Leadbetter. Tel No: 01388 730111
GSD CLUB OF BRISTOL. Sec. Mrs L Dodds. Tel No: 0117 957 3925
GSD CLUB OF DEVON. Sec. Miss S Tucker. Tel No: 01626 833260
GSD CLUB OF ESSEX. Sec. Mrs S Rankin. Tel No: 01708 342194
GSD CLUB OF HERTFORDSHIRE. Sec. Mrs J Green. Tel No: 01438 832525
GSD CLUB OF KENT. Sec. Mrs J Burton. Tel No: 01622 873122
GSD CLUB OF NORTHERN IRELAND. Sec. Ms J Allen. Tel No: none available, please contact the Kennel Club for further information
GSD CLUB OF SCOTLAND. Sec. Mrs E Young. Tel No: 01292 521129
GSD CLUB OF SUFFOLK. Sec. Mrs M McCrae. Tel No: 01473 719514
GSD CLUB OF WALES. Sec. Mrs S Evans. Tel No: 029 2021 9253
GSD LEAGUE OF GB. Sec. Miss C Lister. Tel No: 01630 638540
GRAMPIAN GSD ASSOC. Ms Dawson. Tel No: 01224 848201
HEADS OF THE VALLEY GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs M Davies. Tel No: 01443 412975
HUMBERSIDE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs Bryant. Tel No: not available, please contact the Kennel Club for further information
ICENI GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs Tidy. Tel No: 01473 310461
LEICESTERSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs D Walgate. Tel No: 0116 222970
LINCOLNSHIRE GSD & ALL BREEDS TRAINING SOC. Sec. Mrs Halford. Tel No: 01522 543806
LOWLAND COUNTIES ALSATIAN TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Mrs E Port. Tel No: 01698 843555
MIDLAND COUNTIES GSD ASSOC. Sec. Mrs Macdougall. Tel No: 01636 813764
NORFOLK GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs J Mann. Tel No: 01603 754713
NORTH EASTERN GSD CLUB. Sec. Ms S Hall. Tel No: 0191 241 1096
NORTH WALES ALSATIAN CLUB. Sec. Mrs C Wilson - 01407 840486
NORTH YORKSHIRE & SOUTH DURHAM GSD CLUB. Sec Ms Ingham. Tel No: Contact the Kennel Club for further information
NORTHERN ALSATIAN AND ALL BREEDS TRAINING SOC. Sec. Mrs J Cookson. Tel No: 01457 872376
NORTHUMBERLAND & DURHAM GSD TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Mrs A Newsham. Tel No: 01325 300686
PRESTON & FYLDE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs A Height. Tel No: 01942 867010
REEDYFORD DOG TRAINING AND GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs J Foster, 21, Wellhead, Vinehall, Trawder, Nr Colne, Lancashire BB8 8BW
SHEFFIELD GSD SOCIETY. Sec. Mrs A Hardy. Tel No: 01777 703417
SOUTH OF SCOTLAND GSD AND ALL BREEDS TRAINING CLUB. Sec. Miss E Bonthron. Tel No: 0131 334 3938
SOUTH WESTERN GSD CLUB. Sec. Miss S J Kozhevar. Tel No: 01963 362699
SOUTH YORKSHIRE ALSATIAN ASSOC. Sec. Mr R Brandon. Tel No. 01302 721015
SOUTHERN GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG CLUB. Sec. Mrs V Kimber. Tel No: 01992 301585
TYNE VALLEY GSD CLUB. Mrs L Whales. Tel No: 01207 282801
WEST YORKSHIRE GSD CLUB. Sec. Mrs B Trafford. Tel No: 0113 2572067
Told you there were a lot! Depending on your circumstances you may want to rescue one. There's a list of breed rescues below:
German Shepherd Rescue
Jayne Shenstone, Auchterarder, Perth
Tel: 01764 664894 Fax: 01764 664909 Email: info@germanshepherdrescue.co.u.
www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk
German Shepherd Dog Welfare Fund
Mrs D Lidlow - Secretary, Grays, Essex. Tel: 01375 840251
Mrs J Harrison, SW Essex. Tel: 01375 405589
G.S.D. 2000 Rescue and Re-home
Green Moor, Holsworthy Beacon, Devon, EX22 7ND
Tel: 01626 879086 Email: gsd2000@onetel.net.uk
Lancashire German Shepherd Rescue
Ted Kewley 07754 156189 or 01772 633860
Janice Hill 07742 277304 or 1772 460799
ted_kewley@yahoo.com
Maggie's Pet Rescue
Pitsea, Essex. Tel: 01268 559811. Email: maggie@petrescue.wanadoo.co.uk
Northern German Shepherd Dog Welfare
Mr & Mrs C J & I Bull, Stamford Bridge, York. Tel: 01759 371531
Mr Mrs & Miss Jones, Driffield, East Yorkshire. Tel: 01964 542558
Second Chances German Shepherd Rescue
Carol Tritschler, Secretary,
Caris, Shore Road, Cove, By Helensburgh, G84 0NP
Tel: 01436 842042 or 01368 864550
Email: admin@second-chances.com www.second-chances.com
Vigil - German Shepherd Dog Rescue
Mrs Garnham, Surrey & SW London. Tel: 020 8546 4943
Email: garbo.garnham@virgin.net
Mrs J Parker, Guildford, Surrey. Tel: 01483 503205
Mrs S Gibbons, Haywards Heath, West Sussex. Tel: 01444 453302
Mr R Schmidt, Teddington, Middx Tel: 0208 940 4253
Email: rod@vigilgsdrescue.freeserve.c.
Ms K Shields, Buckley, Surrey, Tel: 07739 707727
Email:shepherds.walk@ntlworld..
www.vigilgsdrescue.org
Have you heard of Joyce Stranger? She's an author who has written lots of animal story books - not just for children but for adults too - she's also an animal behaviourist who has been heavily involved in dog training & has owned several German Shepherds & has written non fiction about them - the joys & pitfalls & how she got along training them.
She's very enjoyable to read . I'm sure that if you could get hold of any of her books then they would be a great help to you. Both before & after you got a German Shepherd.
I've found a website about her - that lists all her non fiction books about her German Shepherds & other dogs - it also gives more information about dog training etc. The link is below.
Your local library may have them or be able to order them for you. Or you may be able to buy them on Amazon or eBay. Oh & on the site it says that you may be able to order them directly from the author.
Hope that this helps .
They are lovely dogs, very loyal and loving and easy to train. after all why would the police use them if it took them years to pick up the simple things!
As with any dog, it also depends on how you bring them up any breed can turn nasty with the wrong attention, or for that matter some dogs are just not too pleasent, just like people!
Ive bred German Shepherds for years, trained them, study the bloodlines and genetics of the breed, and the typical German Shepherd Dog is loyal and affectionate and very easy to train. Dogs with American bloodlines in their pedigrees usually are easier for a novice owner to work with, than most German bloodline dogs, because many German dogs tend to be more energetic and dominant, and can sometimes be too active to be good house dogs.
Socialization is very important in the German Shepherd Dog. The more a German Shepherd puppy experiences people, places, things, etc, positively, the more confident and stable the dog will be. The Art of Raising a Puppy, a book by the Monks of New Skete, is EXCELLENT to read for learning how to work with a German Shepherd Dog and show them what you want, in a way that the dog can understand. It also covers the stages of mental development in a puppy. German Shepherd puppies go through two stages of development when they will act shy, and people often aren't aware that those stages are normal and don't know how to deal with the way a dog may act when going through those stages.
The German Shepherd Dog wants to please the owner and wants to be with you. Whenever a dog of mine escaped the kennel, he/she wouldn't leave but would come running to the house, looking for a way to come in to be with me, That is typical of the breed. However, you do have to earn the dog's respect. Like a 3 year old child, the German Shepherd will sometimes test you to see what it can get away with, and you have to firmly but wisely show the dog that you run the house and he doesn't.
Heres the link to the general information article I wrote when I was actively breeding the GSD.
http://www.angelfire.com/in3/gsd/newpupp.
This article deals with housebreaking and other aspects of training a GSD to live in the house.
http://www.angelfire.com/in3/gsd/pottytr.
The below link goes to my GSD coat and color genetics website. There is information on that site too, about GSD development.
http://www.geocities.com/sahiela2.
There are several good forums on the breed online. Here is the link to one I often visit and contribute to.
http://www.germanshepherds.com/ubbthread.
There is also a good yahoo group on German Shepherds, GSDGenetics.
i love german shepherds and my friend has one and he is 1 1/2 yrs old and he ways 120lbs. hes friendly. and very cute
They are easy to train..but hard to socialise..they are very similar to wolves that they need extra special care with socialising as they are prone to either become nervous or aggressive..they are not a novice dog.Best left to the experts..But if well trained and socialised.they make great family pets. Just check all the lines the dog is from for any agresiveness or nervousness..if there is any..then stay away.
I have a german sheperd who is two and a half and is very affectionate. I have had since he was a puppy and we bonded the first week. But you have to be good with dogs because they can be a handful when there puppies. My dog was very easy to train he knows how to play fetch, sit, lay down, give high fives,and dance, and it didn't take that long. German sheperds are very protective though. I consider it a good thing but you might have your own opinion. They do tend to think they are the boss when they get about 2 though. But as long as you show them that there not then you will be fine.
Hi. we had one from birth, he was lovely, he was never nasty with the family only with other people and we never taught him that,he would pretect us and he would pretect the car too.
I really think you should take them training its worth it,theres some good dog club about.
Best of luck with him.
i have 2 G.S.D. they are both as daft as a bottle of pop, and they learnt things really quick, and they are very obedient. they are also great guard dogs, and are great pals!
they are intelligent dogs but with a strong guarding instinct which must be channelled if you don't want a dog who lunges and tries to bite people. They are very affectionate towards their owners. Too affectionate sometimes as they suffer emotionally if left alone and away from their owner. They can suffer seperation anxiety. Go to training classes. Be aware that once they are adults, you will need to be able to execise the dog properly. They need off the lead galloping once a day. You will also have to get used to brushing properly as they shed way more than any other breed I have fostered.
It's not a breed I can own although I have fostered a few. They are too clingy and inclined to want to guard for my liking.
I have had two german shepherd dogs, one was a puppy 12 weeks old, and the other was a 2 year old rescue dog. I am going to get another GSD soon.
I absolutely am besotted with this gorgeous breed, they do say that once you have owned a GSD, you never want any other breed of dog again, and its true.
They are easy to train, i.e. Guide Dogs for the Blind and the police train them, and they are so affectionate, loving and loyal, you really don't want to thinks about any other breed.
When you are walking down the road with them, you feel so proud that they are with you and feel so smug that you own them, especially when you see other dog owners with their dogs, you look at them and think that your dog is definitely much prettier and well behavoured than their dog.
So yes, yes, yes, a German Shepherd dog from a puppy is good, but a rescue adult is fantastic, they just want loving homes to take them away from the harsh kennels.
my mum has one and hes brillaint and obedient. dont police use gsd,s alot they used to use gsd,s all the time but now they use other breeds to , so i guess they must be easily trained , good listeners & love to please
I have a seven month old german shepherd that I have had for about 4 months. He is great! Very easy to train, sweet, loyal, wonderful with kids and other pets (dogs, cats, mice.everything so far). He is about 75lbs right now and still growing.
our local police have these dogs, good chasers, good biters and good at ripping off legs. be a great companion for your old mum.
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