German Shepherds are, as the name implies, a breed that originated in Germany. They were developed in the late 1800s and were subjected to stringent selection.

In the US, German Shepherds were introduced by soldiers returning home from World War I. The breed caught the public eye mostly because of movie stars Strongheart and Rin Tin Tin. By World War II, German Shepherds were the military breed of choice.

In 1999, German Shepherds were third on the American Kennel Club's list of the Top 50 Breeds.

Being a very active and athletic breed, a German Shepherd needs lots of exercise for its physical and mental wellbeing. A GSD who is not exercised enough will become frustrated and is likely to develop undesirable behaviors. With a puppy, you can start with short daily walks as well as play sessions in a safe, controlled environment like a fenced area.

Participating in canine activities such as agility, herding, tracking, and dock diving can provide excellent physical and mental exercise and can be loads of fun for both the dog and owner.

Dog behaviorist Nick Jones MA said that German Shepherds, ideally, are for people who have had experience with similar dogs before. "Provided that the owner is not a complete novice, has experience of training and living with larger protective breeds, the German Shepherd makes an excellent choice of dog for a family," Jones told Bored Panda. "Take time and care to find a reputable breeder that can show you dogs with a good parentage and can demonstrate a sound temperament in the parents and previous litters, as living with a nervous or under socialized German Shepherd can be stressful."

According to the specialist, the breed requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation and must be thoroughly socialized, both with the breeder (0-8 weeks) and with the owner (8-16 weeks in particular, and then it’s an ongoing process).

Jones stressed that German Shepherds require a great deal of time and effort in the initial stages once the dog goes to its new owner.

"Provided that training, socialization and good manners are put in place from a young age, this a breed that remains highly desirable."