What You Should Know Before Bringing Home a German Shepherd Puppy
Thinking about getting a German Shepherd puppy? We get it — they’re smart, loyal, gorgeous dogs with tons of personality. But before you dive in, there are some important things you should know. German Shepherds are incredible companions, but they’re not the easiest breed for everyone.
We’ve worked with a lot of dogs over the years, and GSDs are one of those breeds that can be both deeply rewarding and seriously challenging — depending on your lifestyle, experience, and expectations.
Here’s what we’d tell any friend who’s thinking about bringing a German Shepherd into their life.
German Shepherds Need Space, Time, and Energy
These dogs were bred to herd sheep, run for miles, and work all day. That instinct doesn’t just disappear in a modern household. A bored or under-exercised German Shepherd can quickly turn destructive — we’ve seen couches shredded, fences jumped, and shoes obliterated.
If you don’t have a yard or regular access to big open spaces, or if your daily schedule is packed, this might not be the breed for you.
That said, if you’re active and enjoy long walks, hikes, or even jogging, a GSD can be the perfect workout buddy.
Smart Dogs Need Mental Workouts Too
German Shepherds are scary-smart. That’s part of their charm — they’re eager to learn, solve problems, and please their people. But that also means they get bored easily. And a bored German Shepherd will find something to do. Hint: you probably won’t like it.
Puzzle toys, obedience training, scent games, agility — all great ways to keep their minds busy. And honestly, it’s fun for you too.
Not a Beginner's Dog
Yes, they’re trainable. But that doesn’t mean they’re easy — especially for first-time dog owners. A GSD will test boundaries, especially during adolescence. They’re strong-willed and need consistency, structure, and guidance from someone who knows what they’re doing — or is ready to learn fast.
If this is your first dog, you’ll want to invest in training classes early on, and be prepared to put in daily work. The good news? They love learning, and with the right approach, they’ll thrive.
Socialization Is Non-Negotiable
German Shepherds are naturally protective. That’s part of what makes them great family dogs — but it also means they can become reactive or overly suspicious if they’re not exposed to enough different people, animals, and situations early on.
From puppyhood, make it a priority to take your GSD everywhere you safely can — dog parks, hardware stores, patios, family gatherings. The goal is to teach them that the world is a safe place, not full of threats.
If you have kids, other dogs, or cats, early and consistent introductions are key. Don’t assume your GSD will automatically be great with them — it takes effort.
They Shed. A Lot.
Let’s bust a myth right here: German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. In fact, they shed year-round and blow their undercoat twice a year like it’s their job. You’ll be brushing, vacuuming, and lint-rolling more than you ever imagined.
Regular grooming helps, and brushing a couple of times a week (more during shedding season) is a must. Invest in a good undercoat rake — you’ll thank us later.
Health and Lifespan
German Shepherds are prone to a few common health issues, especially if they’re not responsibly bred. Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, thyroid issues, and degenerative myelopathy are some of the bigger ones. Vet bills can add up, so it’s smart to plan for pet insurance or a dedicated emergency fund.
Their average lifespan is around 9–13 years. With good care and a bit of luck, you might have them even longer — and every year with them is worth it.
Cost of Ownership
Beyond the upfront cost (anywhere from $500 to $5,000 depending on breeder or adoption), German Shepherds aren’t cheap to care for. Big dogs eat more, need sturdier toys, and rack up higher vet bills. You’re looking at $1,000–$2,000 a year, minimum.
Barking & Guarding Instincts
German Shepherds are vocal. They bark when someone’s at the door, when they hear a strange noise, or sometimes just because they’re excited. In an apartment, that can be a challenge. With training, you can reduce excessive barking — but it’s part of the package with most GSDs.
They’re also protective, which is great — but it requires thoughtful training so they don’t become reactive or overly aggressive. Again, socialization is your best friend here.
Shelter Dogs vs. Breeders
You don’t have to spend thousands to get a great German Shepherd. Rescues and shelters often have purebred or GSD mixes that make incredible pets. Just keep in mind: dogs from unknown backgrounds may need a little extra work — medically, behaviorally, or both. If you go this route, ask lots of questions and be ready to commit to helping your new dog adjust.
If you go through a breeder, do your research. Look for breeders who health-test their dogs, provide a clean, enriching environment, and genuinely care about where their puppies go.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Get a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are amazing dogs — but they’re not a casual commitment. Here’s a quick gut-check:
A GSD might be right for you if you:
- Have a spacious home and preferably a yard
- Enjoy being active and spending time outdoors
- Are experienced with dogs — or ready to learn and invest time in training
- Have the time, money, and energy to meet a high-energy dog’s needs
- Want a loyal, protective companion who sticks close to your side
You might want to reconsider if you:
- Have a super busy schedule and won’t be home much
- Live in a small apartment with noise-sensitive neighbors
- Aren’t ready for heavy shedding and big vet bills
- Want a low-maintenance, easygoing first pet
Final Thoughts
We love German Shepherds. They’re some of the most loyal, intelligent, and rewarding dogs you can have by your side. But they’re also a serious responsibility. And once you bring one home, you’re signing up for a decade (or more) of care, training, and commitment.
If you’re ready for that — truly ready — you’ll gain a friend like no other.
But if not, it’s okay. There are plenty of wonderful breeds and mixes out there that might fit your life better. The most important thing is finding the right match — for you and the dog.