I have a year old GSD and we do GSD rescue, so I always have at least two GSDs in the house. I love this breed.

Now, with that said, you have to remember that GSDs are a working breed. They have been bred to work! That's not to say they aren't wonderful pets, but your dog will be happiest if it is doing something. It will get into less trouble and will bond with you quicker.

I started training my dog the day I brought him home at 7 weeks old. They love to please! Get a good book on training anf work with your dog in small FUN sessions until he has enough shots to enroll in a puppy kindergarten. (Like many people have said, this is a great idea!)

The most common reason people surrender GSDs to rescue is that they haven't properly socialized and stimulated them. Once he has his shots, expose him to as many new things, people, dogs, and experiences as possible. My boy is a year old, like I said, and he is not fixed (he's a show dog). But even in the middle of adolesence and intact, I can trust him around other dogs because he was well socialized with a variety of dogs as a young dog. He loves toy dogs! (To play with - not eat )

I also find it important to set clear boundaries with your dog. You don't have to be mean, but decide what is acceptable behavior and what is not and stick with it.

Good luck!!!