The German Shepherd Dog is a beautiful, powerful, loyal, and intelligent breed.
However, German Shepherds require a strong leader, socialization as pups, training, a lot of exercise, and a lot of attention.
If you don’t have the time or energy to incorporate a German Shepherd as a family member or use it for working purposes, this breed will not be a good fit.
All breeds have positive and negative traits, and health concerns, and the German Shepherd Dog is no exception to this rule.
German Shepherd owners who love the breed will say the positives outnumber the negative things hands down.
4 Myths Regarding the German Shepherd Dog
Unfortunately, there are misconceptions about German Shepherds that not always accurate.
1. The German Shepherd Dog is Aggressive, Destructive, and Dangerous
A well-bred, well socialized, and well-trained German Shepherd will not be a threat or danger to friends, family, neighbors, or society in general.
Any dog that has unstable nerves or temperament may display unpredictable behavior and could potentially be dangerous.
The German Shepherd Dog was genetically designed as a working breed. The reason why German Shepherds excel in sport work, in the military, and as K-9 officers are because they are strong-willed, have a lot of drive and are intelligent dogs.
Due to this, the German Shepherd Dog is often labeled as challenging and uncontrollable when they end up in the wrong homes with the wrong owners.
German Shepherd owners who do their research about the breed and commit to socialization and training end up with a well-mannered, well-adjusted, loyal, protective, and faithful friend and family member.
As for German Shepherds being destructive, any dog large or small that is not mentally or physically stimulated or left alone for long periods may become labeled as destructive.
A destructive dog is typically angry or bored, and the owner should be blamed for the bad behavior instead of the dog.
2. All German Shepherds Have Hip Dysplasia
The German Shepherd Dog is known for hip dysplasia, and it is a valid concern for owners. While there is some basis for this myth, not ALL German Shepherds have dysplasia.
According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Pets (OFA), other breeds have a higher occurrence of hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is found 20% in the German Shepherd breed.
Hip and elbow dysplasia could be reduced in all breeds by screening dogs and certifying they are free of dysplasia before being bred.
To reduce the odds of dysplasia in German Shepherds learn how to distinguish good dog breeders from bad ones Here.
3. German Shepherds Have Sensitive Tummies
German Shepherd’s stomachs or digestive systems are not any more or less sensitive than any other dog breed.
To claim all German Shepherds have stomach issues is an untrue myth.
Stomach and digestive issues can occur from feeding a low-quality food made from preservatives, artificial ingredients, chemicals, and fillers.
4. All German Shepherds will Instinctively Protect their Owners
German Shepherds are large and intimidating dogs.
Because the German Shepherd breed is known for being instinctively protective over their pack members, many falsely believe their dog will protect them from harm.
Most owners don’t know how to read their dog’s body language and mistake barking in fear and showing teeth as protective.
Courage and strong nerves are traits that come from genetics. Training and environment also play an essential role in a dependable protection dog.
Working genetics are found in German and European lines versus American show lines. If you are interested in a protection or sport dog, it’s best to seek out a reputable breeder with a proven record of German Shepherd working lines.
Thinking about adding a German Shepherd Dog to your family? Click Here to determine if your home is ideal for a German Shepherd.
