German Shephard

[Genny]

We have a german shepherd. He's almost a year old and he's a great dog. He's very smart and comes when ever we call him. I'm so glad we got him-you couldn't ask for a better dog! The thing my mom doesn't like about him though is the way he's scared of people that he doesn't know. He barks/growls at strangers... When people come over he won't let them pet him. He just keeps his distance. He's very protective though. He showed signs of being protective of us and guarding the yard at a real early age.

[3GSDMom]

When people come over he won't let them pet him. He just keeps his distance.

German Shepherds are naturally aloof dogs. Socialization is a very important part when owning a GSD. They are not the type of dogs to run up and greet people [minus close family members and friends that have been accepted by the dog] like more sociable breeds like Labs or Goldens would. They are usually pretty indifferent about people other than their owners. They should never bark/growl at strangers.
My 2 are not very people oriented, but since I have been socializing them since a very early age they will tolerate people. If someone, small children included, wants to pet them they will gladly sit politely and let themselves be pat - maybe even offer a small polite kiss.

Thats another key point I forgot to mention. SOCIALIZE socialize socialize! They are definitely a breed that needs plenty of socialization from an early age to anything and everything. [people, dogs, objects, places, etc etc]

[Asiel]

The key to owning a GSD is to do your homework and find a reputable breeder who breeds for temperament and health. And a breeder who has references from satisfied customers for at least 3-4 generations. GSD are highly intelligent but one of the easiest dogs to train as they want to please at all costs. Stay away from BYB or you'll be in trouble. And plan on making your dog part of the family or don't get one.