The German Shepherd Dog is one of the most recognized and popular breeds throughout the world. Not only are German Shepherds intelligent, but they are also loyal, protective, and magnificent to watch in motion.
German Shepherds bring joy and companionship to those who own them. However, this breed is energetic and has needs and quirks that don’t make them the perfect fit for every person.
Here are 10 Reasons Why Some People Shouldn’t Own a German Shepherd
1. Hate to Vacuum
Vacuum haters, beware of the German Shepherd Dog! They shed year-round, and they shed a lot. So if you can’t handle hair in every nook and cranny of your house and you hate to vacuum or sweep on a very regular basis, think twice about getting a German Shepherd.
2. Don’t Own Lint Rollers
Lint rollers are a staple among German Shepherd owners. This breed leaves a furry trace of everything they come into contact with, including furniture and your clothes. If you are opposed to investing in lint roller brushes and placing them strategically throughout your home, dog hair will become a part of your attire and lifestyle.
3. Cannot Stand Toys Everywhere
A German Shepherd will turn your house and yard into a toy minefield. Put the toys into a tidy designated area, and a German Shepherd will redistribute them where they had them, which is everywhere.
4. Stingy with Physical Affection
German Shepherds are known for their love of affection and attention. They thrive when showered with love and admiration by their owners in return for all of the unconditional love they give!
If you are not up for belly rubs, scratching behind the ears, or doling out physical affection regularly, the German Shepherd Dog is not for you.
5. Nosiness is a No-No
The German Shepherd Dog is a smart and curious breed that can be described as a bit nosy.
They will investigate things, people, and sounds. So a good sniff over when returning home is standard, and any bags, purses, or groceries left within a German Shepherd’s reach will also be subject to a thorough search.
6. Personal Space Issues
The German Shepherd Dog doesn’t understand personal space. They are a pack breed which means they want to be with you every second of every day. This breed will become your shadow, following you everywhere you go, including the bathroom.
If you value your privacy when peeing, don’t get a German Shepherd.
7. Want Serious Dog or Laid Back Breed
The German Shepherd Dog is a working breed. They are famously known as Police and Military K9s, tracking, and therapy dogs. When a German Shepherd has a job to do, they take their work seriously.
However, the German Shepherd overall has a playful and mischievous personality combined with a sense of humor.
Because German Shepherds are a working breed, they come installed with drive and lots of energy that needs to be appropriately managed by owners.
8. Couch Potatoe People
German Shepherds are a high-energy breed that requires daily exercise. If your not an outdoor enthusiast and hate the idea of daily walks and playtime, rain or shine, this large breed dog isn’t for you.
9. Don’t Want To or Have the Time To Train
German Shepherds are one of the smartest breeds on earth, which has its pros and cons. Their intelligence makes GSDS quick learners and easy to train.
However, German Shepherds can develop behavior problems when not trained or socialized due to boredom, lacking boundaries, and attention.
10. People Who are Never Home
As previously mentioned, German Shepherds want to be with their humans as much as possible. Leaving a German Shepherd alone for long periods consistently will lead to depression and behavior problems.
A bored dog will entertain themselves with destructive behaviors like chewing and digging. A lonely dog may relieve anxiety or boredom through barking.
If you spend more hours away from home than at home, get a cat, not a German Shepherd.
Conclusion
German Shepherds are beautiful dogs owned and loved by many. However, not everyone is cut out to manage this powerful and demanding breed.