German Shepherd

[quote author=Joly link=topic=7101.msg126753#msg126753 date=1172858962]
Dont own one but groom tons – they are not a breed i like much to be honest. Can count on one had the amount we see who are normal well adjusted sane sensible dogs – now i know its the owners fault BUT ive had more GSDs try to bite me at work than nearly any other breed (shih tzus top that list) and to be honest its put me off them big time.  :-\
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That is a shame but I know where you are coming from  🙁  I adore GSDs but far too many are badly bred, misunderstood by ignorant owners and not trained or socialised.  I know loads of great GSDs, who are ambassadors for their breed, but I have also met plenty who were nervous, noisy and/or aggressive.  :'(

I have owned GSDs for the last 10 years.  I had always admired the breed since I enjoyed Joyce Stranger books as a teenager and fancied myself as a police dog handler  🙂 

GSDs are intelligent, loyal, versatile, highly trainable and completely in-tune with their owners.  It is imperative a pup is bought from health-tested parents with impeccable temperaments by a caring and conscientious breeder.  Positive socialisation is incredibly important throughout the dog’s life and a firm but fair attitude towards training.  A GSD respects a leader and excels when given a job to do.  The breed is used for many different and diverse jobs – search and rescue, guide dogs for the blind, police work, prison and security work and even PAT work.  They make excellent family dogs, so long as all members of the family are taught to respect their dog.  GSDs also make great obedience and agility dogs – given the correct training.

The downside to this breed are the health problems that seem prevalent – HD and CDRM being common  :'( 

Here are a few photos of my pride and joy, Flame.

[img width=468 height=351]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/kirsty4172/Flamepup.jpg[/img]

[img width=468 height=351]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/kirsty4172/FlameatLittledale.jpg[/img]