TRAINING: Throughout the world these dogs are used as guide dogs, avalanche rescue dogs, tracking dogs, watchdogs, defense dogs, and police dogs. In some of these roles, the German Shepherd is almost the only breed used. In obedience competitions they stand head and shoulders above over breeds. It is eager to learn from you, intelligent and quick to get the hang of things. Work principally with your voice. The great majority of the breed worship their handler and have an enormous need for contact with him. If you do not have the time to devote to it, do not purchase a German Shepherd. In its country of origin, the German Shepherd is still used for herding livestock.    SOCIAL BEHAVIOR : German Shepherds get on well with their own kind, other animals, and children provided they have been correctly socialized. But unwanted visitors are stopped. They are territorial by nature.

SPECIAL POINTS: The German Shepherd is the only breed for which there is a world-wide umbrella organization engaged in matters relating to the breed. Based in Germany, the WUSV has more than a half million members in sixty countries.

EXERCISE: People who keep German Shepherds frequently overlook the fact that they are eager to work for their handler. It is not sufficient for them to be companions in the home with nothing else to occupy them. Join a breed group or other organization so that you can participate together in agility, obedience, defense and police trials, tracking, or whatever else is available, in order to keep your dog both physically and mentally fit. For all large dogs, and that includes the German Shepherd, all their energy is needed during the growing stage for healthy bones, joints, and muscles. Damage which cannot be put right can be done by over-exercising or inadequate diet. They can happily live in an outdoor kennel provided they get sufficient exercise and regular attention.