first dog came from an actual pound, a donation shelter that puts dogs down, thats why she was so cheap

this dog came from the humane society where they dont put them down, she was a bit more expensive but i got her on black friday for 75% off

Roger that, thanks for the info.

don't buy german shepherds just have bad hips and cost $$$$$$ good smart dogs though and id like one myself but you have to put them on pain killers n shit... pretty hard to get one with normal hips too goodluck

This post was edited by dewy2015 on Jan 1 2015 10:46pm

Yeah and I would have to agree. It sucks they have those hip problems, but for what I want they are the perfect dog. I really cannot see myself liking/wanting anything else.

Anyone else have any good/bad experiences with GS's?

Slight necro on this thread, but I thought I'd post.

I have a 19 month old black GSD now, we got her at 8 weeks old.

I'd agree with what was said earlier regarding the fact that unfortunately you're going to have to spend a pretty penny if you want to ensure your dog is properly screened for hip dysplasia and the other common GSD health issues. While I'm not against rescuing dogs from a shelter, I do think it's well worthwhile to get your GSD from a reputable breeder. Purchasing a dog from a breeder or private sale where they're not screened for these health problems is unfortunately perpetuating the issues, and is ultimately bad for the breed as a whole (I'm not talking about the 'breed standard', rather the wellbeing of future dogs from that and similar breeders who are promoting the breeding of dogs with serious genetic health issues). If you want to rescue a dog, and have the financial means to care for a dog who could potentially have serious medical problems, by all means, it's a great thing to do, but there is significant merit to purchasing from a responsible breeder as well.

GSDs are actually great apartment dogs, provided you have access to a large area for them to play/walk in (woods or something, not a city dog park!), and time/motivation to get out with them for a bare minimum of an hour a day to run and play, on top of training time.

Speaking of training time, they sure appreciate it. Being such smart dogs, with such a working mentality, they are very adept and training and learning tricks/tasks, it's a great use of all the GSD brainpower!

All the other usual stuff rings very true, they need a lot of time devoted to them for playing/exercising, training and general affection, they respond incredibly well to positive reenforcement, and the value of early socialization cannot be overstated. They will reward you with unconditional love, devotion and loyalty. Can't speak highly enough about them, it is truly a special relationship you will develop with a GSD, provided you are willing to commit the time, energy and resources that are required as a GSD parent.

I would also recommend the Humane Society. especially if you dont want to spend the money on the pure bred. you can get a great dog there for a small amount of money. depending on the area a GS could be very common. or a GS mix. Good Luck getting your new friend!