10 Reasons To Get A German Shepherd
German shepherds are amazing dogs and admired by their owners for many reasons. They are also very popular. In fact, year after year, they make it to the top of the AKC’s annual list of most popular breeds.
They are beautiful dogs and are very recognizable. From working alongside a law enforcement officer to chasing a ball on the beach, there is no mistaking their gorgeous appearance with any other breed.
If you own a German shepherd, you own a jewel of a dog. They are very bonded with their owners. To have a relationship with one has to be experienced to be appreciated. They are the most special dogs on earth.
If you need more convincing about how great these dogs are and why you might want one, here are 10 reasons to get a German shepherd:
1. You’ll sleep better at night
German shepherds live to watch over their owners. While you’re blissfully dreaming, their large, pointy ears are alert to all that is going on in their home and yard. If someone or something trespasses onto your property, they will alert you with loud barks in defense of their home-front.
2. You’ll feel safer on walks
German shepherds are very active and protective. They make great walking buddies. Not only do they love getting outdoors with you, they like nothing more than to get a good work out. With proper socialization to make them comfortable around strangers and new situations, you’d be hard pressed to find a more enjoyable dog to take for a stroll.
3. They help you make friends
Despite being known for being aloof and distant around strangers, socialized German shepherds also like people. When you own a German shepherd, its like being in a special club that everyone wants to be part of, if even for a few minutes. People will want to talk to you because they admire your dog, you’ll meet other German shepherd owners, and you can easily connect with other fans of the breed on social media or in clubs.
4. You’ll never be bored again
German shepherds are a working breed that needs to keep busy. They were bred to herd and guard livestock so lazing around is not in their nature. If you ever see a couch potato shepherd, it’s probably a senior well into its golden years or it has already been running circles around its owner all day. If you want to stay active and want a companion to kill time with, a German shepherd is perfect.
5. You’ll never be alone
German shepherds develop super strong bonds with their owners. They like nothing more than being by your side, following you wherever you go. In fact, if you don’t like sharing your personal space with a furry four legger, or your bed, couch, the bathroom-you should not get a German shepherd. But if you want a constant companion, there is no dog more loyal.
6. Great adventure buddies
If you like to go on adventures, take road trips, or visit new places, the German shepherd is your dog. They love nothing more than to sniff out and explore new places. Since they are so easy to train and confident, they are perfect companions for exploring beaches, parks, going on hikes, or staying at a swanky hotel.
7. Great family dogs
German shepherds are great family dogs. When socialized from a young age, they are great with kids and can usually be trained to get along with other pets. They love being the center of attention. They make great best friends, playmates, and guardians for kids and the home.
8. Easy to train
Known for being highly intelligent, German shepherds are easy to train and love a challenge. Training from puppy-hood is important for these powerful, strong willed dogs but since they love to work, they enjoy learning and pleasing their owners. What owners can teach their shepherds is usually only limited by the investment put into it.
9. You’ll become a breed ambassador
People unfamiliar with German shepherds are sometimes intimidated by their size, appearance, and even their behavior. They don’t know that behind those watchful eyes and alert expression is a dog with a heart of gold. With training and socialization, you can raise a German shepherd that is a great representation of what a German shepherd was born to be: well balanced, confident, not overprotective, athletic, and polite in public.
10. Love and loyalty
German shepherds are one of the most loving and loyal breeds on earth. They live their life in devotion to their family. They will do anything, go anywhere, and protect you from anything, even risking their life for yours. Their devotion knows no limits and their love is unconditional. They deserve to be repaid for such selfless steadfastness with lots of love in return, respect for their breed, and a willingness to make them part of your life.