We have had more German Shepherds (GSD) come through our doors at Bullys Behaven in the last few years then we have had since we started working with aggressive dogs in 2007. They are an impressive breed, but without proper leadership, they can become aggressive and will require training and rehabilitation to turn those negative behaviors around.

As GSDs grow in popularity, we wanted to share some important things to consider if you are looking to bring a GSD home to be part of your family.

GSDs are a popular breed for good reason - they are awesome dogs! They are super intelligent, committed to their family, active and energetic, and thrive with a strong bond to their owner. But these things can also present serious challenges for owners.

One of the main reasons GSDs come in for training is because they are not the right fit for their owners. These are working dogs that require a firm and strong leader that’s willing to put time and training in. As a GSD owner, there are commitments you have to make - you must be consistent with tasks like daily walks, leash handling, socialization and exercise.

Here are some important factors to consider before bringing a German Shepherd into your home:

• Exercise Needs: German Shepherds are an active and energetic breed that require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need daily physical activity and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and reduce the risk of behavioral issues.

• Training Requirements: GSDs are highly intelligent and trainable dogs, but they require consistent and firm training from a young age. Proper socialization and obedience training are essential to ensure that your GSD grows up to be a well-behaved and well-adjusted and balanced dog.

• Space and Living Arrangements: German Shepherds are large and active dogs that need plenty of space to move around and burn off energy. If you live in a small apartment or do not have access to a yard, a GSD may not be the best fit for your living situation.

• Grooming Needs: German Shepherds have a double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain their coat's health and reduce shedding. They shed year-round, and their coat may require more frequent brushing during shedding season.

• Time Commitment: German Shepherds are loyal and devoted dogs that thrive on human companionship. They require a significant amount of time and attention from their owners to build a strong bond and fulfill their need for interaction and mental stimulation.

We have worked with many families to help turn their situation around with their aggressive German Shepherds. If you are interested in learning about training for your German Shepherd, fill out our contact form and we’ll get back to you shortly.