A German Shepherd is a Large Dog. Full of Love and Play. They will jump on you. Scratch you with their Du Claws when trying to get your attention or they are excited. No. They are not trying to hurt you. But expect to bleed for your dog. And don’t freak out when it happens. Just trim them. And disinfect the cut and treat and bandage if needed. But most require no bandage.

Use a Veterinarian to keep your Dog Healthy and their Shots up to Date.

Food? I absolutely will not feed my dogs a Cheap Food. I lost Four to cheap Foods and bad things found in the food after dogs started dying. I use PURINA PUPPY CHOW. And I give them a Vitamin by mouth every day. And I use CAPSTAR pills for Fleas. I add one to half a piece of sliced cheese. First, Give one half with pill and then, immediately give second half to your dog. Otherwise your dog will drop the pill out of its mouth and eat the cheese.

Sleeping crate? Yes, absolutely and a large one early in their lives. I use a large soft Dog Proof Mat inside for each of my dogs to sleep in. But I’m talking for your Big Friend that stays in your Home. But they are not Cats and don’t urinate or poop in the House. No litter box for them. Train them to go outside.

Be careful of this like NO CHOCOLATE for them. Learn what they can or cannot eat. I give my dogs a slice of cheese when they are told to Go to Bed which means get in your Crate. And they do.

Love your Dog! When you begin talking abnormally Loud, expect your dog to want to get in your Lap. I feed one German Shepherd while she lays in my lap. Yes, I do. There is a dominance issue between her and her sister when it comes to Who Gets to eat on the floor. But they both will eat out of the same pan when I stand beside it.

If you don’t want your dog to get on your furniture, do this. Set some small wooden mouse traps on the furniture. Place a sheet of newspaper on top. And in no time, they’ll get the message

They will rough house as cards as you want to. But don’t hurt them. And never TEASE your German Shepherd.

A lot of people are afraid of large dogs, don’t add to their Fear by allowing your Big Dog to run free.

When Guests come over, put your dogs up in their Crates. And be sure no one tries to stick their hands in their Crates. That is their Safety Net. Their Home. Respect it.

Raising and owning a German Shepherd is a great way to begin with a Large Breed Dog. They are full of Love. And brush their hair out regularly and be sure starting at an early age. When they get older, they will come to you when you pull the Brush out. They learn like any animal. Keep poisons away from them.

Never feed them ANY BONES! If you give your Dogs treats when you eat, make sure it’s after you eat your meal. Then they do a great job of cleaning plates and bowls. Lick them clean. Will look just like it came out of the dishwasher. But wash them anyway.

Raising a German Shepherd requires dedication and responsible ownership. Here are some key suggestions:

1. Start Early Socialization: Expose your puppy to various people, animals, and environments to build confidence and reduce anxiety.
2. Obedience Training: Begin basic obedience training as early as possible. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and responsive to training.
3. Consistent Discipline: Use positive reinforcement techniques and be consistent with rules and commands.
4. Exercise and Play: German Shepherds are active dogs that need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and puzzle toys are beneficial.
5. Proper Nutrition: Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Consult your vet for dietary advice.
6. Grooming: Regular grooming includes brushing their double coat, cleaning ears, and trimming nails.
7. Healthcare: Keep up with vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, and regular vet check-ups.
8. Safe Environment: Ensure a secure and safe living space, including a fenced yard if possible.
9. Love and Attention: German Shepherds thrive on companionship. Spend quality time with your dog.
10. Behavioral Challenges: Be prepared for breed-specific challenges like guarding instincts and potential aggression if not properly trained and socialized.
11. Professional Help: If needed, seek the guidance of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for specific issues.
12. Exercise Their Mind: Engage their intellect with puzzles, training, and interactive toys.
13. Socialize with Other Dogs: Encourage positive interactions with other dogs to prevent aggression or fear-based behaviors.
14. Teach Basic Commands: Teach essential commands like sit, stay, and come for safety and control.
15. Patience: Understand that raising a German Shepherd takes time and patience. They are known for their loyalty and dedication to their owners.

Remember that every dog is unique, so adapt your approach to your specific German Shepherd’s personality and needs. Building a strong bond through trust and positive reinforcement is key to a happy and well-behaved companion.

And remember this-No two have the same personality. And if you are a mean person, your dog will pick that up from you. They become a small you, but in a dog way.