Are German Shepherds Aggressive...?

[townchicks]

I have talked to many state troopers as my part of my job and talked to several K9 officers. That dog is trained to be that way on duty. The dog is trained to know when it’s on and off duty. And off duty they are super sweet, playful loyal and protective but not in aggressive manner. But once in a patrol car they know what they’re duty is.

I agree with you, to a point. Back in my grooming days, I regularly did grooming for 2 police dogs, and they were great dogs. I never had any concerns about my safety, even though both these dogs had put "perps" in the hospital. They both also lived with kids, and did regular community outreach appearances. They were very highly trained, and that was highly important, obviously They were also BRED specifically for the job. IN GERMANY. Most police departments that still use GSDs (many now use Malinois) don't use American bred dogs, because they have too many issues with health and temperament. Again, I love the breed, but I have also known too many that were not stable dogs and very concerning that they were in the hands of people that did not know what they were doing. They are big and strong enough to do a lot of damage in a very short time, so temperament and proper training are both important, but temperament is more so, IMHO. Case in point, my sister never does any training of her GSDs, and she has had 4 purebreds and 2 mixes, none of whom have ever bitten anyone, because they had good temperament. So they are out there to be found. She has also been told repeatedly by all her vets, that her dogs are the exception to the rule. So, there are bad ones out there too. Just saying, hedge your bet, by going to a conscientious breeder and properly socialize and train. Or, like my sister, get a dog from a reputable rescue that temperament tests, and you can meet the final product and see what you are getting.

 

[Birdsong 82]

I agree with you, to a point. Back in my grooming days, I regularly did grooming for 2 police dogs, and they were great dogs. I never had any concerns about my safety, even though both these dogs had put "perps" in the hospital. They both also lived with kids, and did regular community outreach appearances. They were very highly trained, and that was highly important, obviously They were also BRED specifically for the job. IN GERMANY. Most police departments that still use GSDs (many now use Malinois) don't use American bred dogs, because they have too many issues with health and temperament. Again, I love the breed, but I have also known too many that were not stable dogs and very concerning that they were in the hands of people that did not know what they were doing. They are big and strong enough to do a lot of damage in a very short time, so temperament and proper training are both important, but temperament is more so, IMHO. Case in point, my sister never does any training of her GSDs, and she has had 4 purebreds and 2 mixes, none of whom have ever bitten anyone, because they had good temperament. So they are out there to be found. She has also been told repeatedly by all her vets, that her dogs are the exception to the rule. So, there are bad ones out there too. Just saying, hedge your bet, by going to a conscientious breeder and properly socialize and train. Or, like my sister, get a dog from a reputable rescue that temperament tests, and you can meet the final product and see what you are getting.

Oh I agree. I think the point I was trying to make is there not necessarily aggressive dogs off the get go. If I was to get another I would do it young. Lots of training involved with German shepherds yes. Usually if trained properly from a young age you will have a great and loyal dog. I have one that is half German Shepherd so that’s a bit different. But she’s incredibly sweet incredibly loyal And protective in the manner that she will always alert us when someone’s coming down our dirt road and anytime someone comes to her house she has to check out the situation in the behaviors of the people who were there. After that her next concern is when that person will pet her. LOL

 

[Peaches Lee]

I like GSDs. I would describe them as alert, edgy and reactive (and vocal too!). I feel they are best suited to an experienced dog handler simply because they are a smart, energetic breed and without proper guidance to cultivate those traits, they can become destructive, shy/fearful and sometimes "aggressive".

Since I work at a Veterinary clinic, I get to see animals when they are not in their element--at home, relaxed, watching TV, napping, getting belly rubs etc. Instead, it's a scary, strange smelling place where people hold you and poke and prod and grab! For some dogs, this can be overwhelming, others not so much. GSDs are a breed that is more likely to show their displeasure in the whole process vs say a Lab that is just super excited to see friends, friends and hey, look! more friends!

What I suggest is handling your GSD puppy's feet, legs and body. When you take your puppy to the Vet, they will need to restrain the puppy for vaccines, de-worming, etc. and restraint can really freak animals out, so practicing that is important. Crate training is also super important in case your dog ever needs hospitalized for illness/injury and stress from never being kenneled can reduce the healing process. And then of course basic obedience training. GSDs are smart dogs so the more they learn and the more active they are, the happier they will be! Good luck!