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Please consider making a donation to our cause through PayPal.
All donated funds go toward helping German Shepherd Dogs
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Is
The GSD The Right Breed For You?
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The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a wonderful breed, but it is a
"high maintenance" animal not suited for everyone. Our intention is not to
talk you out of adoption, but if you are
unfamiliar with our favorite breed, please take the time to educate yourself
about it. You can start right here by  reading the following.
"Top 10 Reasons
Why
a GSD
May Not Be
the Dog for You"
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German Shepherds require a serious commitment. Many of the dogs that
come to rescue organizations have no training. It is important that the
new family puts time and effort into training their rescue dog.
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These dogs have a high energy level. The very energy that allows
these dogs to be police, search, guide and herding dogs is often the
reason these dogs are surrendered. If you are looking for a couch potato
you may want to consider a different breed.
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German Shepherds are highly intelligent. If they are not given a job
to do they will often come up with their own.
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Like any dog, the German Shepherd is a social animal and needs to be
part of a family. The loyalty that endears this breed to many requires
that it not be banished to the backyard.
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German Shepherds are large dogs. The number one reason given by
people surrendering German Shepherds is moving. Usually apartments do not
welcome these dogs. If you do not know where you will be living a few years down
the line it is not the right time to adopt.
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These dogs shed non-stop.
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They can be vocal, often whining and barking to communicate. If left
alone for prolonged periods of time they may become problem barkers.
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If you do
not like doggy smell, consider a different breed. Also,
bathing can be challenging due to the dog's water-resistant outer coat.
A German Shepherd must respect its owner. This is not accomplished
by heavy-handedness; it is only achieved when its owner treats the dog
with equal respect.
These dogs originated as herding dogs. It is a heritage they carry
still. Keep this in mind if you or your neighbors have livestock. Remember
that in some states a dog harassing livestock may be shot.
- Julie Connolly for German Shepherd Rescue
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