In America, German Shepherds stand out as one of the most popular dog breeds, known for their sweet and loving nature. However, they’re not the right fit for everyone. If you’re thinking of getting one, please read on. They demand time and commitment, and sadly, this mismatch leads to many being abandoned. Trust me, it’s a story I’ve seen too often. Not every home is ready for their energy and needs. Here are the 13 types of People who should never try to own the German Shepherd
1. If You don’t appreciate nose art
If you’re not a fan of super curious German Shepherds with their long noses constantly pressing and probing around, think twice. Their snout often ends up against doors and windows, leaving wet nose prints and smears. It’s their way of showing love, but not everyone might appreciate this kind of “nose art”. Owning one requires a bit of patience for their explorative antics.
2. If You Don’t Like Dog Hair Everywhere
If you’re the type of person who cringes at the thought of finding fur on your couch, car seats, or clothes, owning a German Shepherd may not be for you. These loyal dogs come with a double coat, including a medium length undercoat that loves to shed, especially during spring and fall. German Shepherds are known to leave their hair everywhere, from your bed to your dinner plate. Despite their many virtues, if constant cleanup sounds like a hassle, this breed might not match your lifestyle.
3. If you hate the outdoors
German Shepherds are energetic dogs that need to exercise, run, and play outdoors every single day. If you’re someone who prefers staying inside to soaking up fresh air, then these dogs might not be for you. Owners who shy away from regular outside activities may find the demands of a German Shepherd challenging. Remember, these dogs thrive on being active and enjoying the great outdoors with their human companions.
4. If you don’t like to laugh
German shepherds are known for their funny antics, often acting silly and entertaining their owners with hilarious things. They thrive on attention and love to make you laugh. So, if the sound of joyful laughter isn’t your thing, having a German shepherd might not be the best fit for your home.
5. If you don’t want to share their snacks
If you’re someone who doesn’t want to share your snack, a German Shepherd might not be your good companion. With their great hearing and excellent sense of smell, they’ll get every treat you try to enjoy in secret. In the past, I’ve learned that once you share a snack with them, you’ll never enjoy a solo treat session again.
6. If you Want a Couch Potato to Watch TV with
If you’re dreaming of a furry friend to sit on your lap and watch TV, a German Shepherd might not be your ideal companion. Known as herding dogs, German Shepherds require plenty of physical and mental exercises every day. From long walks to a variety of fun activities like playing fetch and tug of war, these dogs need constant stimulations to stay happy. The American Kennel Club even recommends around two hours of exercise daily for an adult GSD. So, unless your family is prepared to be as active as your furry friend, he might end up being more of a herding dog than a couch potato by your side.
7. If you don’t like to give butt scratches
If you’re not the butt scratchy type of person, owning a German shepherd might not be good for you. These dogs often show their low spot just below their tail, hoping to have it scratched. They’ll happily back up into you, searching for that right spot. Missing this simple bonding moment could mean missing out on a key part of their affection.
8. If Your Circumstances May Change
Owning a German Shepherd dog demands a significant commitment throughout the life of a dog. If your lifestyle often changes, this may not be the right breed for you. These dogs require consistent time and energy to accompany you on a walk, stay on a healthy diet, and socialize, train, and groom properly. Given the German Shepherd’s average lifespan, ensure your circumstances support a long-term commitment. Remember, a GSD is not just a pet but a life companion.
9. If You Are Not Willing to Invest Your Time in Dog Training
If you’re someone who’s not ready to invest your time in dog training, then owning a German Shepherd might not be right choice for you. This large breed demands a lot of both physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy. Sadly, many adolescent dogs end up in shelters or rescues because they weren’t properly trained or socialized early on. Without dedicating time and effort to rectify these issues, you might face disturbing behaviors like frantic barking, lunging, jumping, and even biting during family encounters.
10. If You work in shifts or always on a tight schedule
If you work in shifts or are always on a tight schedule, owning a German Shepherd might not be ideal. These pack animals crave a strong leader to bond, train, and socialize with them. Without enough time to groom, walk, play, and care for your GSD, they may develop separation anxiety leading to behavioral problems like excessive barking, chewing on furniture, and aggressiveness.
Remember, they grow big and fast, requiring consistent care. Just like children who never grow up, they depend on you to give them the love and attention they deserve. Think of them as a baby that stays with you for their entire life. Neglect can foster unnecessary marking inside the house if left alone all day. This scenario isn’t fair to these magnificent kinds of dogs who just want to be part of your world.
11. If You Are a Neat Freak
If you’re the kind of person whose house needs to be spotless, owning a German Shepherd might not be for you. These energetic dogs can be your biggest enemy when it comes to cleanliness. They often leave trails of muddy paws and water splash on everything inside your home. From toys scattered around to getting bored and deciding to chew up your couch, shoes, door, or even wall, they’ll make you think your home has been robbed! If you can’t tolerate such dog behavior, a German Shepherd might not be the best match.
12. If You Are Only Looking for a Guard Dog in the Yard
If you’re considering a German Shepherd (GSD) simply to protect your backyard, car, or other possessions, think again. These intelligent dogs crave the love and attention of their owners; they’re not just a living home alarm system. Their instinct to guard is strong, but they thrive on interaction far beyond being left alone outdoors. A GSD needs to be part of the family, cherished, not just tasked with keeping things safe.
13. If You are on a tight budget
Owning a German Shepherd can be a financial challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget. These dogs come with a hefty price tag not just for the initial cost of the puppy, but for the first year essentials like vaccinations, deworming, veterinary visits, along with crates, toys, dog foods, and snacks. Don’t forget the ongoing expenses such as training materials, boarding kennels or dog sitting services when you’re away from home.
Even a night’s stay at a kennel or an hour of dog walking service can add up. Moreover, Vet bills for conditions like hip dysplasia, a common issue in this breed, based on size, age, and overall health, can become astronomical factors that turn the joy of owning one into a fortune. The treatment of hip dysplasia alone can run into thousands of dollars.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, it’s clear that German Shepherds are not a one-size-fits-all kind of pet. They’re incredibly loving and loyal, but their high energy, shedding coats, and playful nature demand a specific kind of owner. If the thought of fur everywhere, outdoor adventures, and sharing your snacks doesn’t excite you, or if your home life is more about quiet evenings and spotless interiors, then this breed might not be your cup of tea.
Remember, owning a German Shepherd is a long-term commitment that requires more than just admiration for their intelligence and protective instincts. They need your time, patience, and active involvement in their lives. So, think carefully about what you’re looking for in a furry companion to ensure a happy home for both you and your potential pet.
FAQs
Who should not get a German Shepherd?
If you’re not there to provide the physical stimulation and mental stimulation a GSD needs to feel happy and functioning, then this breed might not be the right dog for you. These dogs thrive when they’re an active member of the family, taking walks, and having time to play. Without it, they may not feel as useful and needed by their society or family members. So, if you’re unable to commit to this, perhaps a different companion would be a better fit.
Are German Shepherds for everyone?
German Shepherds are a fantastic breed, known for their size and strength. Yet, they’re not suited for all families due to the lot of energy they need to burn off. It’s easy to see why they’re popular, but their needs aren’t a good fit for everyone.
What are German Shepherds’ weaknesses?
German Shepherds are a breed admired for their intelligence and loyalty but are also known for facing health issues. Their larger frame can make them susceptible to hip dysplasia, a condition that affects their mobility. Another concern is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), which can impact their digestion.
Do German Shepherds turn against their owners?
In the world of German Shepherds, it’s not unheard of for their aggression to be aimed at strangers. Yet, owners should know that with proper training and bonding, the risk of a dog attacking its owner can be minimized. Normally, these loyal dogs are protective, however, there are examples where the lack of connection has led to unexpected behavior. Through understanding and care, the bond can grow strong, safeguarding against such risks.