The German Shepherd Dog — or GSD — consistently makes it into the list of the top 10 most popular breeds in the United States each year, and it’s easy to see why. These pups are incredibly intelligent and capable canines who are ready to work. What’s more, German Shepherd puppies are too cute for words! Fortunately, if you have been eyeing a German Shepherd puppy, they’re also ready to play, snuggle, and make you laugh uncontrollably at their unintentionally goofy demeanor. If you’re thinking about adopting a German Shepherd puppy, here are five things you should know going in — plus some adorable pictures of these canine companions!
German Shepherds can be protective of their families
The German Shepherd is described as a breed that has an “eagerness to have a purpose.” This is why they make such amazing working dogs and take on jobs such as police work, search and rescue, and military roles. German Shepherd Dogs also make incredible service animals for people with disabilities.
Part of your German Shepherd puppy’s purpose will be to please you and make sure you’re safe. They tend to be one-family pets, meaning they can be suspicious of strangers. As such, early socialization is important for this breed to ensure they mind their manners around other humans and dogs.
GSDs will help you redecorate your floors
Do you have a hardwood floor? That will transform into a nice carpet with the German Shepherd’s notorious shedding coat.
Although absolutely gorgeous, Shepherds are shedders to the max. Prepare for a snow globe of hair to poof off your pup any time you give them a big snuggle, which will be more often than not. As such, you’ll need to invest in regular grooming for your pup. You’ll also need to be ready to remove hair from your furniture and bedding, especially if your German Shepherd Dog sleeps with you.
For this dog breed, playing around is no game
The German Shepherd is a very active breed and needs lots of physical stimulation and playtime. As such, consider making long walks interesting to keep your puppy fit — physically and mentally.
When you first get your puppy, playing may consist of nipping due to their herding background. When your GSD is fully grown, they may love to wrestle around and forget how big they are. If you’re an active person with thick skin, a German Shepherd puppy may be right for you.
German Shepherd puppies are big softies
Despite their intimidating looks, German Shepherds can be total softies, especially if socialized early on. These pups are always up for snuggling with others, including kids and other pets. Even though they often don’t make the top 10 list of kid-friendly dogs, GSDs love their family and are an incredibly loyal breed.
German Shepherd Dogs are nosy busybodies
If you want a German Shepherd puppy in your life, you have to really want your dog to be a part of every little bit of your daily routine. Morning showers? Your pup will want to sit right outside to make sure you rinse off the soap. Your bed? That’s for both of you, right?
Highly intelligent and curious, Shepherds want to know what is going on all of the time. German Shepherds will attach at the hip and make the right person the happiest dog parent on the planet. Lucky for you, that starts from the time they are puppies.
Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Even GSDs end up being rehomed and in need of adoption, so you don’t necessarily have to find a good breeder to welcome a German Shepherd into your brood.
