The canine breed that possesses both elegance and intelligence is undoubtedly our cherished German Shepherd dog. There are numerous advantages to owning a German Shepherd, and quite honestly, I had to refine my list several times due to its potential to be exceedingly extensive.
Our adored GSDs consistently rank among the top of various dog breed compilations, being recognized as the most clever dog breed, the most athletic, the finest working dog breed, the most effective guard dog breed, and the list continues indefinitely…
Numerous factors contribute to why our beloved German Shepherds enjoy such popularity, and all of their appealing personality traits are indeed behind these factors.
I can confidently assert that if I were to create a list of advantages and disadvantages regarding the ownership of a German Shepherd dog, the advantages would be considerably lengthy; however, the disadvantages would be so minimal that they could be regarded as negligible.
These dogs are classified among the large dog breeds, with 7 distinct varieties, and they exhibit diverse patterns of their coat colors.
They are not frail dogs, and they do not suffer from numerous hereditary ailments. You won’t find yourself spending your funds hopping from one veterinarian to another – rather, you’ll happily be utilizing that money for dog treats and toys.
GSDs were bred to stand as the quintessential working dog, which inherently signifies a dog breed that possesses sufficient strength to accomplish any task assigned to them.
What Are The Advantages Of Owning A German Shepherd?
There exist numerous advantages to owning a German Shepherd dog, and we will discuss the most prevalent ones, and I trust you will wholeheartedly concur with my selections.
Now, let us delve into them together!
1. They Are Among The Most Intelligent Dog Breeds
Many of us typically focus solely on a dog’s ability to learn tricks when evaluating their intelligence, yet there are countless additional elements that influence how clever a breed can be.
What makes this breed so intelligent? Well, their genetic composition is primarily responsible. These canines were purposely bred to be sharp-witted and perceptive. They were designed specifically to be herding dogs, or more specifically, to manage sheep.
This clarifies why the term “shepherd” is included in the breed title of this brilliant dog. They required a wide range of skills, all of which are categorized as intelligence, to perform this job effectively.
Even if you lack extensive experience, you won’t have to instruct these dogs on obedience. Occasionally, dog owners may feel overwhelmed when trying to introduce their dog to something new.
One element assessed in Coren’s evaluation is how rapidly a dog absorbs new information. This evaluation of canine intelligence was developed by an individual named Stanley Coren. You won’t be surprised to learn that German Shepherds excelled in this assessment.
Numerous dog breeds exhibit what is known as innate intelligence. This means that a specific breed was designed to execute a specific task. They acquired something in their genetics as a consequence… something they will instinctively comprehend and perform.
German Shepherds have developed various skills over time. They have been defending sheep for countless years, which contributes to their protective nature. Through this guardianship, they acquired a new set of skills, improving upon them.
2. They Are Simple To Train
Your German Shepherd must participate in training sessions throughout its life. For older dogs, you might reduce the training time to just one session daily, yet it is crucial to never cease altogether.
Well into their golden years, German Shepherds still enjoy training, and they benefit from the cognitive challenge. These dogs weren’t created to be lazy throughout the day. Their well-being relies on them being provided with activities, including training.
Training German Shepherds doesn’t always have to culminate in a specific outcome. The most complex commands and all the fundamental ones should be acquired, but this doesn’t imply that you should entirely discontinue practice.
German Shepherds were bred for training purposes. They possess high intelligence and they understand commands effortlessly. They yearn to please their owner; thus, they are receptive to them! If you ponder whether the German Shepherd is the ideal dog for you, the answer is affirmative.
These dogs are generally easy to train as long as you employ the correct training method. The German Shepherd is obedient because of your relationship with them; hence, training should focus on developing that bond.
As soon as you welcome your new dog home, training ought to commence. In about 9 weeks, you will likely have mastered all the essentials, but don’t halt there!
3. They Are Low-Maintenance Dogs
GSDs require approximately the same level of routine care as most dogs – more in certain aspects, yet significantly less in several others, making them quite a low-maintenance breed.
Nevertheless, in terms of proper rearing and reflection, they excel above the rest, thanks to their energy levels and intellect. They will require considerable mental stimulation, and if they do not receive adequate exercise, they may become unhappy and stressed, possibly leading to destructive behavior.
German Shepherds are not suited for sedentary or solitary lifestyles. As puppies, they require substantial socialization, puppy education, a balanced diet, and regular grooming. However, in essence, that is a necessity for every dog looking for a good companion.
They do not suffer from certain health issues that could be financially burdensome, nor do they require special dog foods, grooming tools, or dog beds.
These dogs have been working companions for centuries, and they are incredibly adaptable to various living conditions, making them part of the dog breeds that rank high among the low-maintenance dog breeds.
4. They Are One Of The Finest Guard Dogs
German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and devoted. They will protect their owner, their loved ones, and their home. They are exceptional family companions and formidable security dogs that will undoubtedly keep you safe.
They will stand by you through thick and thin due to their innate loyalty and defensive nature towards their owner.
German Shepherds are often recognized as one of the finest guard dog breeds, even though they also serve as remarkable family pets, due to their affectionate and dedicated demeanors.
They do not possess the appearance of canines you would wish to provoke. German Shepherds are classified as large-sized canines, standing between 24 to 26 inches tall, and weighing 62 to 100 lbs.
Only their counterparts, the Rottweiler and the Pitbull, can rival their incredibly strong jaws and bite force. The GSD is a valiant, undaunted, and robust dog — attributes that render it suitable for home defense.
They grasp commands swiftly, and with the appropriate training, they will step aside when a friendly guest enters the home.
5. They Are Affectionate!
If there is anything that German Shepherds relish doing besides working, it would be showing affection, showering their owner with kisses, and curling up with them!
I realize that many individuals will perceive a German Shepherd as a breed primarily suited for roles such as a police dog, guard dog, search and rescue dog, or therapy dog, yet these dogs make wonderful cuddle partners as well!
They generally belong to the kind of dog that establishes strong bonds with the entire family, especially with children, and that one family member who spends the most time with them through feeding and teaching them new tricks.
They will instinctively demonstrate more obedience towards the person they identify as the pack leader, thus sharing greater affection with them.
Read Next: Why Does My German Shepherd Place His Paw On Me? 8 Answers
They are highly protective of their owner and the entire household they share their lives with, and believe me… I wouldn’t want to be an intruder in a home where a German Shepherd serves as the defender.
They possess this natural patience, and some people refer to them as dogs with wisdom beyond their years who grasp everything but have yet to comprehend human language.
GSDs will display their affection whenever they find the opportunity and will always be the type of dogs that delight in belly rubs. Occasionally, they might even implore others to provide that if you don’t!
6. They Are Versatile In Various Living Conditions
A highly intelligent dog can adjust to numerous different environments. This is the canine equivalent of self-directed learning. Full-blooded German Shepherds possess exceptional memory capabilities, enabling them to face new ventures that mirror those they have previously managed.
They also acquire certain commands innately. For example, when you inform your German Shepherd that it’s bath time, they will naturally rise and head toward the bathroom.
Historically, these dogs were kept for work around livestock, a.k.a., herding dogs. At that time, humans lacked the resources and luxuries they now enjoy; thus, dogs were not receiving the pampering they do today.
These dogs can, however, more readily adapt to rigorous living conditions in which they must toil from dawn till dusk instead of existing in a small apartment with limited exercise and physical activity.
They do require a certain amount of space where they can freely run, move about, and explore. And, to be candid… without adequate space to roam freely, they may become exasperated.
7. They Are Excellent With Children
I have already pointed out how this breed is incredibly protective of its family. However, I hadn’t mentioned how they are utterly protective of the youngest family members!
German Shepherds thrive during playtime, particularly with kids because children possess much more energy and time to share in fun activities with them.
They often perceive them as their own pups and typically remain incredibly cautious when playing with them.
As robust as they are as working dogs, they also embody a gentle and affectionate nature, exhibiting an endless supply of unconditional love for children.
Feel free to leave your children unattended while they are playing with the German Shepherd in the backyard. They will safeguard them from harm and negativity, and your children will have the time of their lives while engaging with these gentle giants.
8. They Are Athletic
This energetic breed of German Shepherds will encourage you to rise from the couch.
Additional physical activity has been demonstrated to improve nearly every facet of your life, including weight control, heart health, stress alleviation, increased vitality, mobility, immune system resilience, and numerous other benefits.
Generally, German Shepherd owners are more likely to maintain regular exercise routines, engaging in outdoor activities in all kinds of weather. Compared to individuals without dogs, dog owners are 35% more active, spending an additional 30 minutes engaged in physical activity daily.
These German Shepherds require frequent exercise. Experts recommend that a GSD be exercised for at least two hours each day to preserve their happiness.
GSDs are known for damaging furniture; hence, reducing their energy levels could result in a more regulated dog at home. While dedicating time to lengthy walks may be a dilemma for some dog owners, it can be a benefit for those who have the time to lead an active lifestyle.
If your job obligations prevent you from providing your GSD with the necessary exercise, you might consider hiring a dog walker.
9. They Are Loyal
They are celebrated for being exceedingly devoted companions to their owner and family members. German Shepherds are renowned for being excellent family dogs with a strong instinct to protect.
The time and effort you invest during their puppyhood will influence their level of loyalty. Your GSD puppy can create a profound connection with you by being eager to please and responsive to your commands. This will enhance their dedication to you.
German Shepherd enthusiasts who embrace the role of authority in the family can foster a loving and respectful relationship with their dog.
Final Thoughts
German Shepherd Dogs are a captivating and delightful breed of canines. There is a plethora of advantages associated with having a German Shepherd dog; however, we have highlighted the most prevalent and significant ones.
The benefits continue to enumerate for this breed, as they possess a well-rounded personality that enables them to adapt seamlessly into any family across various surroundings.
Just make sure that you allocate sufficient time and provide them with freedom to roam without constraints to expend their excess energy should your dog not be engaged as a working companion.
German Shepherds are fairly straightforward dogs to train in terms of obedience and coexistence within families. To ensure they grow into healthy and well-behaved adult dogs, GSDs require a modest amount of attention and care concerning hygiene, activity, and anxiety management.