ok so i've always loved these dogs and dh said that when we get out of the navy we might be able to get a puppy german shepard. what can anyone tell me about these dogs? are they good with kids, we will have a toddler and possibly an older baby.

My #1 piece of advice is to find a reputable breeder to obtain your puppy from. GSDs are a breed that has been overbred/irresponsibly bred, imo, and getting a puppy from a less than reputable source can be a source for disaster (emotionally and financially). Actually, before even going that far I would suggest using the time between now and when you will actually be ready to get your pup to do as much research as you possibly can into the breed, their health concerns, puppy socialization, etc so that you can be an informed GSD owner.

They *can* be wonderful dogs who are great with kids and a tremendous part of the family. One of the biggest factors that will impact whether or not that turns out to be the case, though, is starting with a puppy from a breeding line with excellent temperment and health history. The old nature vs. nurture debate can be beaten like a dead horse but why not start with the best possible not-so-blank slate (puppy) to start writing on as you bring him/her into the family?

We had a wonderful GSD that was part of our family and I LOVE the breed. If we ever get another dog I would want a GSD.

I grew up with them and have had them since I left home and IMO they are absolutely wonderful dogs but def research any breeder that you are considering buying a pup from as some breeders seem to like to breed their dogs to many times. My GS's were always GREAT with kids, very loving and loyal. Like a lot of other large breed dogs they are prone to hip problems (luckily I haven't had any problems with mine).

Im in a rush, but i'll tell you- we had a purebred german shepherd about 2 years ago- he was a wonderful dog, huge personality, very sweet and happy- but he just didn't have a big enough backyard (with the pool and all) and he started to act out. Walking him twice a day for an hour wasn't enough- he wanted to be outside all the time exploring. It's in his blood to be exploring and be active. He was wonderful with children and other dogs too.

So we gave him to the Police- and he is now a trained police dog- and he's thriving and he is happy.

Beautiful boy. Broke my heart to see him go.

They are prone to kidney problems, blindness & arthritis if memory serves me right. But you should get atleast 10 years with him before things like that happen.

It's basically all up to the size of your yard. Is it big enough for a big dog? Because they need room to move, if they don't have the room, they are going to mess your house up. Also- they are verrry boisturous and playful as puppys but once again- you shouldn't have any problems aslong as the bloodline is good and you have a yard.

We have one and she is great with kids and other dogs. She's very vocal at times especially when you come home from being gone a while. Definitely make sure whoever you get a puppy from screens them for hip problems. If they are screened and certified the chance they will develop hip displaysia lessens. Hip displaysia can be a painful and expensive issue to take care of.

Also as with any puppy training is key.

Any dog can be great with kids, its about the training of the dog.

I'm not going to get into an argument with anyone about what a GSD is and is not. There are several different broad types of bloodlines, some are suitable for small children, some are not. I 've trained more of them than I can count from all lines, been breeding, showing, and competing for a while now with GSD's, feel free to PM me.