German Shepherds are one of the most iconic dog breeds in the world. Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, they serve as police dogs, military working dogs, and beloved family pets. But despite their impressive reputation, owning a German Shepherd isn’t all heroics and admiration. Many first-time owners underestimate the challenges that come with this breed and often find themselves overwhelmed.
If you’re considering bringing home a German Shepherd – or if you already have one – here are seven important things owners wish they had known sooner.
1. Their Energy Levels Are Insane
German Shepherds are not couch potatoes. They were originally bred as working dogs with jobs like herding, guarding, and law enforcement. This means they need a lot of exercise—far more than a simple daily walk around the block.
Ideally, they require 1 to 2 hours of physical activity every single day. That includes activities like:
- Running
- Hiking
- Obedience training
- Agility courses
- Fetch or frisbee sessions
Without proper exercise, a German Shepherd can quickly become destructive. Boredom leads to behaviors like chewing furniture, digging up the yard, or nonstop barking. If you’re not an active person, this breed will demand more energy than you can give.
2. Shedding Is Out of Control
If you hate vacuuming, a German Shepherd might not be for you. They shed year-round, but it gets even worse twice a year when they blow their coats – a seasonal shedding process that leaves fur everywhere.
Expect to find hair on your:
- Furniture
- Clothes
- Floors
- Car
No amount of brushing will completely eliminate the shedding, but regular grooming (2–3 times a week) helps manage the fur storm. If you or a family member have allergies, you may want to reconsider this breed.
3. Their Protective Nature Can Turn Into Aggression
German Shepherds have natural protective instincts – which is great for security, but it can also lead to aggression or reactivity if not managed properly.
Without proper training, a German Shepherd may:
- Bark excessively at strangers
- Lunge at perceived threats
- Develop territorial behaviors
- Show fear-based aggression
Socialization is critical for German Shepherds. They need to be exposed to people, places, and situations from a young age. A poorly socialized German Shepherd can become overprotective and even dangerous, which is why training must be taken seriously.
4. Health Problems Can Be Costly
German Shepherds are prone to several genetic health issues, and treating them can be expensive. Some of the most common problems include:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (joint issues that cause pain and mobility problems)
- Degenerative myelopathy (a nerve disease that leads to paralysis)
- Bloat (a life-threatening stomach condition)
- Heart disease and skin allergies
Vet bills can add up quickly, and some conditions require surgery or lifelong care. Investing in pet insurance is a smart choice if you plan on owning a German Shepherd.
5. They’re Not Ideal for First-Time Dog Owners
Despite their intelligence, German Shepherds aren’t easy dogs for beginners. Their high energy, protective instincts, and strong-willed personality mean they require firm leadership and consistent training.
A first-time dog owner may struggle with:
- Establishing dominance (Shepherds need structure)
- Handling their strength (They can easily overpower a weak owner)
- Managing their high-energy needs
Without a strong, confident owner, a German Shepherd may develop behavioral problems. If you’re new to dog ownership, you may want to start with a less demanding breed or seek professional obedience training.
6. They’re Prone to Separation Anxiety
German Shepherds form deep bonds with their owners. While this makes them incredibly loyal, it also means they struggle with being alone.
Common signs of separation anxiety include:
- Excessive barking or whining
- Destructive chewing (doors, furniture, carpets)
- Pacing or trying to escape
If you work long hours or travel often, a German Shepherd might not be the best fit. They do best in homes where someone can provide constant interaction and mental stimulation. If you must leave them alone for extended periods, consider:
- Crate training to create a safe space
- Interactive toys to keep them busy
- A dog sitter or doggy daycare
7. Their Size and Strength Can Be Overwhelming
German Shepherds are big, powerful dogs. Males typically weigh between 65–90 pounds, while females range from 50–70 pounds. Their strength can make them difficult to manage, especially if they aren’t trained properly.
Common struggles for new owners include:
- Pulling on the leash (they need leash training ASAP)
- Knocking over small children (not always intentional)
- Jumping on people (can be intimidating)
If you’re getting a German Shepherd, be prepared to commit to obedience training. Teaching basic commands like sit, stay, down, and heel early on will help prevent bad habits from forming.
Training Isn’t Optional—It’s a Necessity
With some dog breeds, training can be relaxed, but with German Shepherds, it’s a must. Their intelligence and problem-solving skills mean they can easily pick up bad habits if not guided correctly. If left untrained, they can become stubborn, overly dominant, or even aggressive in certain situations.
Basic obedience training isn’t enough – structured, consistent training throughout their life is required. This includes leash training, socialization with people and other animals, and command reinforcement. Many owners underestimate how much work it takes to shape a well-mannered German Shepherd, and those who don’t invest the time often regret it when they start experiencing behavioral issues. The good news? When trained properly, German Shepherds are one of the most obedient breeds out there, making them an absolute joy to work with.
They Need a Job to Stay Happy
German Shepherds are not lap dogs – they were bred to work. If they don’t have a job to do, they will create one for themselves, and that often leads to destructive behavior. Their natural drive to be productive means they excel in sports, obedience competitions, and working roles like search and rescue or service work.
Even if you don’t have a formal “job” for your German Shepherd, you need to keep them mentally engaged. This can be done through advanced training, scent work, agility exercises, or even structured playtime. A bored German Shepherd is a destructive German Shepherd, so keeping them busy isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a requirement.
Is a German Shepherd the Right Dog for You?
German Shepherds are loyal, intelligent, and hardworking, but they are not for everyone. If you’re looking for a laid-back, low-maintenance pet, this breed isn’t the right choice.
Before bringing one home, ask yourself:
- Do I have the time for daily training and exercise?
- Am I prepared for constant shedding?
- Can I handle a strong-willed, protective dog?
- Do I have the financial resources for potential health issues?
If you can confidently say yes, then a German Shepherd could be an amazing companion. But if any of these points make you hesitate, it might be worth considering a different breed—or at least doing more research before making your decision.
One thing is for sure: Owning a German Shepherd is a long-term commitment, but for the right owner, they are among the most loyal and rewarding dogs on the planet.
Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.