9 Problems Only German Shepherd Owners Would Understand

Dec 28, 2022

German shepherds are awesome dogs. They will change your life and steal your heart. There are no other dogs quite as special but owning one comes with some consequences that are unique to the breed.

Here are some problems that only German shepherd owners would understand:

1. Your dog is smarter than your friends

German shepherds are super smart. They learn things quickly and love a challenge. At times, it seems that there is nothing that they can’t do. Since they love to please, they enjoy being taught new tricks. Speaking of tricks, you can’t get away with fooling one like you can some people because they’ll be onto you faster than you can sneak out of the front door.


2. Your dog can read your mind

German shepherds are very intuitive. At times, it seems like they’re mind readers. They often anticipate what you’ll do before you do it. This perceptive instinct can’t be taught, rather it’s something they are born with. Of course, they’re really not able to read minds. But just try to sneak a treat and they’ll be onto you like peanut butter on a cracker.


3. You can’t remember the last time you slept in

Forget about sleeping in once you own a German shepherd. Once the sun rises, so do they. They are very active and expect you to keep up. It doesn’t matter what day it is, if you’re sick, or if you’ve been up all night, burning daylight is not part of their nature. You can always sleep some other time so might as well get used to it.

4. Privacy has taken on a new meaning

German shepherds have no concept of personal space and that includes the bathroom, shower, and bed. They consider it their job to stay by your side and will go to great lengths to stick to you like glue. This can be great or not so great, depending on what you’re doing. Only one thing is certain, you’ll never do anything alone, ever again. And yes, they can open doors.


5. You always blow the dog budget

German shepherds cost a lot of money. Since they are large dogs, everything dog-related costs more and you need more of it. They need a never-ending supply of chews, super healthy food that’s gentle on their sensitive digestion, lots of toys to destroy, tons of balls to chase, and trips to the vet to ensure they’re healthy. Plus, once you get there, all their prescriptions and procedures cost more than what it would for a smaller dog but they’re worth it.


6. The vacuuming never ends

German shepherds shed, a lot. Sometimes it seems impossible that they would have any fur left but yup, it’s still there and it’s all over the house. The only way to tame the mess is to vacuum often and even more so when they blow their coat twice a year. And, even then, they get fur everywhere they go and even places they don’t. Constantly sucking up their fur is just part of life, and you’ll own more vacuums than you ever dreamed when you own a German shepherd.


7. You can never be sneaky enough

Nothing gets by a German shepherd. Don’t even think about trying to sneak a snack or skipping their nightly walk. They know what you’re up to before you even think about it. There’s no way to be stealthier than they are so you might as well not even try.


8. Relaxing is no longer relaxing

German shepherds love it when you relax. To them, this is a universal signal that means that you’re ready to go have fun. Just sit down to chill and your dog will be drawn to you like a magnet. They will be sure to bring their favorite ball for you to throw or bark nonstop while standing by their leash. Playing with them is the best way to unwind, according to the breed.


9. They try to replace your friends

There is no more loyal friend than your German shepherd. You are the center of their universe and the love of their life. They consider it their job to protect, comfort, and entertain you. They really don’t see the need of having people outside the family take any time that you could be spending having fun with them.


German shepherds truly are the best dogs. Their love, loyalty, and devotion are unmatched. Being owned by a German shepherd is the greatest gift and they are worth every minute of work and every penny spent.

They make the best friends and companions. They’d do anything for you and will protect you with their life. Everything is better with a German shepherd by your side, which works out perfectly because that’s exactly where they want to be.

We hope you enjoyed this fun list. What “problems” do you have with your German shepherd? We’d love to hear from you. As always, please feel free to share with your friends.

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