Opinions - German Shepherd Dog Breed

Added on Jan 1st, 2008
Also disagree with the comments that German Shepherds aren't good with children. I have two and they are wonderful with my three nephews and get so excited when they come to stay. I think a big part of it is that the kids were never allowed to tease the dogs and didn't want to. If someone allows children to behave meanly to a dog, I surmise that any breed of dog will end up disliking children. Adults must take responsibility for how they teach children to treat any animal.

Added on Jan 1st, 2008
I too disagree that GSDs are classed as "poor" with children. We have always had this breed of dog in the family, and they have all been wonderful with children, playful and protective, without being aggressive.

Added on Jan 1st, 2008
As has been commented by several other readers, I too am disappointed that the GSD is listed as "poor" in regard to children. Yes, they are large dogs, however, they are extremely intelligent, trainable, & loyal dogs. We are on our 3rd GSD and have had nothing but good things to say about how they relate to our children. I strongly believe temperament has a lot to do with how dogs are treated, trained, and socialized - not by breed alone.

Added on Jan 1st, 2008
I could not DISAGREE more that German Shepherds are bad with kids! What an IGNORANT statement! I have had 4 GSD's throughout my life and I am considering purchasing another from Germany. They are the most loyal, intelligent, loving, and gorgeous dogs on the planet - a REAL dog. Our neighbor's 2 year old daughter sat on, rolled all over and tugged on Baron, our Spangdahlem born male and Teddy, our Czech born male. Not once did they ever nip or growl at her or any child; they just took it, somehow knowing she was just a baby, and they watched over her carefully.

Added on Jan 1st, 2008
I cant believe people are saying German Shepherds are a naturally aggressive dog. I have had Sergeant my GS for 3 years now and he is anything but aggressive, actually he is nothing but a big baby. He has to be carried into the vets office for his shots and he tries to climb in my lap when he sees the vet. I guess people might think GS are mean because they maybe have saw them working as police dogs but they have been trained to do that. Believe me German Shepherds are anything but aggressive.