I dont really know anything about the situation... I guess I wasn't here when you had Ozzy? But, I do think it was good of you to atleast admit that you were too busy to give Ozzy the attention he needed, and find him a home that would. Atleast you didn't just leave him in the backyard, like SO many people our age do! It's awesome that you want to rescue, and a mature dog would probably be good for you. But, a mature GSD still needs a lot of stimulation, training, exercise, and play time! And, you can ask Pitc and any other GSD owners, some German Shepherds do not grow out of the destructive stages. Some dogs will continue to "ruin" things when they're left alone through out their lives - that goes for dogs of all breeds. And that does require a lot of training and managaing.

You should definately talk to GSD owners if you're really into the breed. They are VERY large, headstrong dogs, and theyre awesome. I wanted a GSD before I got my Border Collie, but after a year of researching the breed and spending time with a bunch of German Shepherds and owners, I decided not to. They're amazing, but they are very large, active, working dogs and could easily require more effort and time than a Collie. It would probably be difficult for any teenager to care for such a large, active breed on their own. My trainer has a huge GSD named Einstein, he is a really sweet dog who she rescued as a puppy, and she has been training him very strictly ever since he was 10 weeks old.. and he still has his uncontrollable moments, and challenges her constantly at 2 years old.

..so, maybe your mom wants you to get a Lab or Golden because she thinks the breeds might be more suitable for you? Those breeds tend not to be as headstrong or demanding as a GSD. But it's definately up to you, just make sure you not only think about what you want in a dog, think about what is best for the dog. Maybe try fostering or spend a week with a certain dog that you like from rescue? See if you bond with the dog, and if not, you can spend that time training them and find them a good home. You seem like you have good intentions.. lol.. I don't know you that well, but I know what you mean when you say how much you love training and spending time with dogs