Sandy
The German Shepherd is mostly noted for its work with the police force, and is capable of being one of the top security or guard dogs ever. Although you think they can do so much work with not just your family or the police or even military force, they can be more than just that type of dog.
According to the AKC Registration Statistics, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds! Because they can be such great guard dogs, they can also be seen as a perfect family dog. They are also used as herder dogs, and even a show competitor. Their bodies are strong, husky and they are smart, skillful and determined to get their job done, and get it done right! They can come in most colors, but are usually the most popular which is black and tan.
Shilo
They originated from Karlsruhe, Germany, in 1899, so it’s obvious you can see the skilled dog being a part of some old history. Since their birth, they have been top herding dogs, and even a part of the movie business. Movies like, “Rin-tin-tin” and “Strongheart” are both movies that incorporate this breed. The movies helped the dog reach its popularity level, and so its history grew.
I own two dogs that are mixed with a German Shepherd. Even if the two aren’t necessarily pure bred Shepherds, they exhibit many of the same traits as a pure bred would. For example, my oldest and most faithful mix, Sandy (pictured at the top), is very dedicated to our family and acknowledges that she is our guard dog. She is careful about strangers, approaches them with a fearless expression, and once happy about them, moves on. On the other hand, our younger mix, Shilo, shares the playful side of a German Shepherd, because she is a bit more playful. Even if she is more playful, she also loves to be outside, watching and waiting for anyone to come between us. Shilo shows how protective she is, especially with my younger sister, Amy. She sleeps in Amy’s bedroom and if you were to even open the bedroom door she would be waiting for whoever was coming in, just in case she had to get more cautious.
Sandy
You’re wondering if this dog is right for you and your family, and with my own life with my own Shepherds put into perspective, I think you would find yourself very happy with a German Shepherd in your life. They may be careful and cautious with strangers, but they can become a very faithful dog. They are loyal to their families and owners, and take in mind the guard dog that they are with every situation. They are energetic, fun-loving, and they are fond of children. They establish a good bond with them and will stick with them for as long as they can. A guard dog, a smart dog, a strong dog… they are one awesome family dog.
As usual, below is a video courtesy of YouTube member camTRON87, of Animal Planet’s “Dogs 101″ show which features the German Shepherd. Enjoy!
Posted by Jonathan on April 20, 2010 at 11:39 am
I remember from a trivia game that German Shepherds bite people more than any other breed, but I think that is due to their police/security work, rather than their demeanor, I think Chows and pitbulls attack people without cause more than other breeds, but I don’t have any info to back that up.
Posted by chrisdazzo on April 20, 2010 at 11:40 am
Great post. It’s always nice to learn a bit more about the dogs that I see around my home, or used to see around my home. Years and years ago, when I lived in California, we had a wonderful German Shepherd named Chewie. He was my best friend; we played together, took naps together, and he was there to protect me if anyone got near me. When he died, I felt like I had lost a part of myself, even though I was only seven years old. It’s weird, how a dog can be so much to you a friend as a human is. Again, cool post. Cheers!