FAQ

Some of these frequently asked questions are already posted on this website, so please forgive me if I post the answer twice!

Q: I have no backyard, am I still able to get a German Shepherd?

A: It really depends on what Shepherd you get. I personally wouldn't adopt a Shepherd if I had no fenced yard. They like to run and play. They also love to sniff around for more exciting "scents". They are energetic and require lots of exercise. Some Shepherds need more exercise than others. Not all Shepherds can get their daily exercise from a leash.

Q: I live in an apartment, could I get a Shepherd?

A: Of course! However, you would need to make some sacrifices (i.e. not staying out too late, take your dog outside every now and then). But again, it all depends on the type of dog. I would not recommend a puppy for an apartment, just because they are so energetic they need an actual house with a fenced yard.

Q: Are German Shepherds big or small?

A: Shepherds are quite large dogs, while some can be small, it is more likely that you will find a large Shepherd. Shepherds weigh up to 100lbs. They require lots of room and space to run around and play.

Q: How long do Shepherds live?

A: Most live to be about 10yrs +.  Shepherds are a life-long commitment. They live for quite a while.

Q: What are some bad things about getting a Shepherd?

A: Oh so many things! If you do not know what you are doing with a Shepherd, there can be dozens of bad things about them! Here is a list about the common "bad" things about Shepherds. This is the list I give to potential Shepherd adopters. If they can live with the things below, then they will be excellent dog owners!

1. Shepherds shed...a lot. Every day buckets and buckets of grey, black and brown dog hair everywhere! Their fur gets stuck to couch cushions, clothing, rugs, carpets, floors, food. If you can touch it, dog hair can get there. Even if you clean it up, it just keeps coming back!
2. Dogs are very loyal. They love to be with their people. They cannot be left a lone for too long (and this goes for all shepherds). If you leave them a lone, they will tear up furniture, rip rugs and papers apart. I even had someone tell me that their Shepherd chewed their cell phone and a flashlight to bits!) Almost every Shepherd has once been crated. They need crates because they are so attached.
3. They are aggressive. Most Shepherds are aggressive towards cats, other dogs or squirrels ;) ! If you get a Shepherd you better be absolutely sure it tolerates any animals you have in your household. Most Shepherds also do not get a long well with little dogs.
4. They have allergies. Lots of Shepherds have allergies, that means they get rashes if they eat the wrong dog food, they vomit if they have a certain kind of food, and they could get diarrhea.
5. Shepherds are prone to Hip Dysplasia. This means be very fragile with puppies and older dogs with their hips!! If you are not careful, they could get hip dysplasia!

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