The DU Lounge
Related: Culture Forums, Support ForumsThis is why people love German Shephards
I had a Shepard/Akita mix and these guys remind me of him. Best dog ever. He was a giant baby.

Skittles
(167,424 posts)but I wish that dreadful song would be retired
Lovie777
(20,245 posts)hlthe2b
(111,319 posts)That instinct to guard/protect can go into overdrive, so early training with consistency is paramount. AND... that especially must include being around other (non-Shepherd) dogs to allow for them to learn non-aggressive body language, appropriate "greeting" behavior, and even play behavior appropriate to other dogs/breeds. If you go to a park and watch the other dogs approaching a shepherd, the latter is obvious. Well-trained German Shepherds will be interested in all around them, but do not become overly interested in other dogs, with their body language remaining neutral--to which the other dogs likewise remain non-reactive.
But, yes, they can be great dogs. I only wish we humans had not bred them so poorly to render most so prone to hip dysplasia and other joint issues.
More response than probably needed for a cute video, though.
anciano
(1,948 posts)We have a Shepherd/Husky mix.
Thanks for sharing.
pansypoo53219
(22,589 posts)MustLoveBeagles
(13,619 posts)Had a white one called Duchess
BlueKota
(4,599 posts)This breed has been a huge part of my life since I was four. Thank you for sharing this.