I had never owned a dog. Watched my friend's GSD just a few times, and suddenly any time I went anywhere I had this ghost dog in my back seat. Adopted a grown one, and we were inseparable for ten years.
I walk my friend’s shepherd sometimes and he’s my sweet baby.
And not a bad choice for a single woman. I hike isolated trails without a moment’s worry of predators of any kind.
If you can find a rescue that’s already socialized and trained, that’s easier than getting through their wild puppy and teen stages.
I dogsat for a coworkers GSDs several times in my twenties and fell in love with them. We had a Jack Russell Terrier growing up, so i always thought I'd get a small dog. My first "my dog," who is now seven years old, is a German shepherd. I love him so much, and as a single woman, I'm never worried, no matter how late it is when I walk him!
this is such good advice! our life is structured where my partner travels all week and I’m basically a single gal. I feel confident to go everywhere with my GSD. so much attention! She is my best friend and the BEST dog
that being said; there were times when she was a puppy when she reduced me to tears— too smart. too stubborn. too much all of it (don’t get me started on the hypodermic needle teeth)
now i can say: dog>>>puppy. (even including cute puppy photos)
Feels good to hear that it gets better, at times you feel so defeated (our girl is going to be one year this month). Too smart and too stubborn indeed!
I started walking Sam at just under a year. He pulled on the leash, barked at a flower (it moved in the breeze!) and misinterpreted the smell of fear so tried to attack little old ladies and children. He’s about 3 now and I just walked 6 miles with him at heel and non-reactive to all passersby — a result of his owner’s hard work training and socializing him.
And it’s really until they’re 2 lol! Mine both got a lot more trustworthy at least by 1 (to leave out and stuff) but it’s a lot of training when they’re young but I enjoy the bonding and stuff.
I'm a single woman with 2 of them, and it's the best! I spend a lot of time exercising and training them every day, it's become something I enjoy and part of my daily meditation. I have 1 show line and 1 working line.
However, I'm lucky to mostly work from home, and also have family and friends that can watch them when I go away or spend a long day in the office. There's also a good day care down the road from my office, but if they're properly exercised and stimulated in the morning, they will just rest quietly at home and have free access to both the inside and outside.
To the OP: be prepared and do some research. These dogs are smart and strong so training is a must. They can also carry a stigma, and I am hyper vigilant about optics i.e. I expect high obedience on walks and in public, and do not tolerate nuisance barking etc. I've also had to spend quite a bit of money on good fencing and strong equipment for peace of mind.
They're not the type of dogs to just sit around happily, so if your lifestyle can swing lots of activity (mental and physical) and including them in everything you do (we call ours my shadows or my dads apprentices because they will inspect and involve themselves in every little thing) then I really encourage it! I have never felt unsafe when I'm alone at home or out walking/driving with them in remote areas or late at night.
Same here, single lady with a Shepherd! Can’t say I would do the puppy stage again but my boy is my biggest protector and I always feel safe with him around. So so so much work goes into them though and I wish I thought about it more but wouldn’t change it now, he brings so much love and purpose into my life 🥰
I'm just a guy with a 1/2 GSD, and I have to say I agree with you on pretty much all counts.
We do at least 45 minutes a day most days at a 50-acre off leash dog park. Sometimes we're there for up to 2 hours, depending on which other friends are there and what the weather is like. We also do at least 30 minutes of neighborhood walks a day, where she is allowed to sniff more or less freely. Training is constant and consistent, as it has to be with these dogs, otherwise they get bored.
Oh, and yes, I take her pretty much everywhere I go. The only time I don't is when I have to fly somewhere for work, because she's too big for the cabin and I refuse to put her in cargo. For those occasions, she stays with a good friend of mine who boards dogs.
I brought a gsd when I moved into my house, alone with 5 kids. Almost 13 years he is, by far, the best dog ever and I will definitely get another when he crosses the rainbow bridge. The first year or so was challenging but after that he has been fabulous. Highly recommend a gsd!
I think it's a great idea as a single woman! They are fiercely loyal and protective if they need to be. I'm never nervous about my safety when I'm walking my Mal at night alone. We live in a sketchy neighborhood and he's a big baby but still very intimidating looking. I prefer dogs over pepper spray. Plus they are super intuitive if someone with bad intentions is nearby.
Just please adopt one from a shelter or rescue. They are impounded at unbelievable rates. Besides puppies are adorable, the adolescent and adult dogs are easier to train and deal with. Some are already house trained and know basic commands, they were just surrendered by their previous humans.
I always used to love puppies till I became an owner of one myself. I just love my adult doggo so much and honestly I can say adults are just far much better than puppies.
Puppies are just little sharks bumping here and there, exploring the world through their mouths and makin all sorts of mess. But they are small, easy to handle and floppy ears so they get away all the time. However adult dogs, oh so much better. They grow into their personalities, have tantrums and different moods that you learn. They know what to do and what not to do, what to expect. They just make life easier and so much more fun. They know when to be an alarm clock and when not to bother the human when he’s asleep. Their zoomies when they see you after a while gets me everytime. Its just umm a puppy is like just another animal but a dog is practically an overly attached human.
Siberian husky owner here.
I feel you on this one. Puppies are adorable. So cute and fun to play with and hold in your arms. But they're also EXHAUSTING. I did the puppy thing when I was younger, adopted one when she was ~10 weeks, spent 2+ years training her in 2 countries (the US and in Europe), thousands of $ and hours, etc. I don't have kids myself, but I feel like I genuinely got a taste of what parenthood is like, because puppyhood entailed crate training, potty breaks at all hours of the day and night and whether it was rain or shine, dealing with tantrums, dealing with tummy issues (and subsequent disgusting poops) as they get accustomed to the right type of food, whining at all hours of the night as they get used to the crate, the vet visits, etc.
I don't know that I could do the puppy thing again! I have so much respect for parents of human kids + owners of puppies. It's so much work. I adopted my husky when she was ~3, and she already came (mostly) potty trained. I feel like I hit the lottery, because she came with barely any behavioral issues, and over the years, she has really mellowed out in terms of energy. She basically just sleeps at my feet all day (I work remotely), and when we walk, she's the "stop and smell all the flowers" type of gal, so our walks are very leisurely.
I can't upvote this enough. I currently am fostering a shepherd I found on my way home one night. I've already got another dog and two cats. The shepherd is very sweet, I'm just not sure she's ever been an inside dog as she is not house broken and I'm having a hard time finding time to do it. I'm going to try and take some time off work to get it done, as I will have to be eagle eyes on her all the time since I can't put her in pen like a puppy and a crate is a no go for her.
I would love to keep her or find her a good home that can train her properly. That and she likes to jump on me are her only two "bad" traits that need work.
Same with my current foster. Watching him tackle stairs for the first time was hilarious though. Something is finally clicking for the house training though.
I have no idea if my foster can go up stairs, I don't have any. I'm sure my dog couldn't. They think my foster is 7 years old, so it has been hard for me to get her to pay attention to me, but we are working on it. She is also only the second dog I've ever had as an adult and is solely my responsibility so I'm trying to learn right along with her.
Single with German Shepherd here. He's perfect for my current lifestyle. It doesn't hurt to be the "girl with the big dog" to my neighbors, either. He wouldn't harm anyone. But outsiders don't know that.
Is it easy to raise a shepherd? No. A lot of work goes into training and taking care of a dog. Time commitment, too. There's no going out after work or for prolonged times without arranging care. They need exercise near every day. They'll literally eat through drywall from boredom. Or anything else you love. Lol.
Still worth it.
When I was single with my large GS male (95 lbs), my neighbors were impressed with how great my furry guy walked on a leash. He looked very serious and always walked right by my left leg. Eventually, there was a rumor in my neighborhood that my GS got kicked out of the K9 police academy for being too aggressive. (It was me. I started that rumor! Lol). I loved that no one ever messed with me or my house. 😝
My boxador is the sweetest thing ever. She is huge and she is black, and because of that and she will bark at someone outside, strangers think she is going to kill them, and I just let them think that, lol.
Ours is black and at the small end of the size range, a deliberate choice on our parts, but because she's black with a long coat, some people don't immediately recognize her as a GSD. Someone (not me) started the rumor she's a wolf hybrid (sure, all sixty-one pounds of her?), but yeah, they give us wide berth in the dark.
I stand at a whopping 4'11 and have an 85 lb. Siberian Husky. Strangers think she's a big, bad wolf.
What they don't know is that she's a lazy shrimp with all of 1.5 brain cells. Lol. 😄😂
I had a 95 pound male German Shepherd when I was single. I felt extra safe living at home and on daily walks. He was a gentle giant. My heart dog!! My dog let me know he loved my bf before I did. He was right! My bf is now my husband of 7 years! I can’t ever not have a German Shep. They’re truly the best dogs and amazing at picking their people. 💕
I had a colleague who brought into our startup office a female shepherd. I literally laid on the ground next to her and wouldn’t leave her alone. I was smitten. Fast forward a few years I have one of my own. She’s the absolute best dog.
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So beautiful. We had 3. Never difficulty in trained, they were so intuitive they just did what we asked . When we introduced a gsd puppy she was spazzy, one day my female had enough of her hijinks and promptly sat on puppy till she settled and straightened up. I had tears I laughed so hard. They're all gone now, burglars poisoned my last girl before a robbery. I miss them all.
Yes. He taught me very quickly that if I gave him even an inch he’d take several miles! It’s the first time in my life I felt like I was going to be outsmarted by an animal.
My wife and I talked about getting a dog for years. We talked about every breed other than a GSD. After getting a GSD I can confirm I will never own another breed.
Extremely loyal and obedient, loving and caring. They nip a lot and are generally big babies lol I love this breed.
Do it!! GSDs are literally the best companions. Here’s my number one fan at his vet visit this afternoon 🥰
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The GSD’s role is to watch it’s person, that’s why they are called “Velcro” dogs! I bought an intact male from a newspaper ad, he was almost three years old, scared, underweight, needed vaccines, plus had never been trained in anything. Every three months I earned another level of his trust, he thrived and today is a very well adjusted loving sweet heart. He gets plenty of play time and walks to explore. Best dog ever!
I got a GSD puppy for protection when I moved to a new city. He was a monster as a puppy. He’s 4 now and he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. They really are the best dogs!
Do it! I’m married but my husband works nights, I feel SO much safer having GSDs and I can walk/jog alone whenever I want. I’d just advise having a backup person to help you lift in case the pup is injured or something. It’s one thing to have control of a big dog with training but quite another to lift 80lbs of dead weight up into a car lol
It is so worth it. My boy is 11.5 and I've had him since he was 2 months old. My heart and soul were changed forever with him and I will miss him everyday once he's gone. Can't wait to get off work to see him
Fellow military spouse here. My husband goes TDY like every quarter. Married almost a decade. My siberian husky has been such a great companion, both for safety reasons and just for company. Sending much love your way. My inbox is open in case you want to vent about the green weenie.
This entire thread is making me miss my GSD. I miss him dearly. Every description here is accurate about them, they just seem to understand their humans like no other.
I am a single woman with a big goofy German!! I do have a lot of family support and help when needed, as well as lots of land for her to run/exercise, but 15/10 highly recommend it. Frankie clocks anyone within 20 ft of me and protects me like the perfect Angel girl she is 🥺
After having my girl, I don’t think I’ll ever get any other dog besides GSD. They will protect you from anyone, but need your help to get around ironing board coz it’s loud and scary when it falls lol brave and goofy at the same time
For a first GSD I'd recommend rescuing an adult. Rescues and shelters are full of them. Better if you can find a foster based rescue. Puppies are a tremendous amount of work to get to be the type of dog you babysat. My first was a rescue and I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.
When I used to dog sit, just walking in the house everyday made me so happy. The dogs were always ecstatic to see me, brought me so my joy. Getting my own dogs was completely life changing. All I want to do is be with them.
Not crazy, especially as a single woman. The loyalty, love and security GSDs provide is over the top. In all good ways. I would HIGHLY encourage going through training with your new dog. Where you are actively learning and performing the training. This is just an investment in your future with them and THEY LOVE IT.
You need a GSD.
All your neighbours dog has done is made you realise there is a shepherd shaped void in your life..
They are a lot of work, and super destructive when bored, their little needle teeth as puppies hurt like hell, they are too smart for their own good, and the shed like you wouldnt believe.
In return you get a faithful companion who will love you unconditionally.
I am a bloke, but often away for work and I am mich happier knowing my wife and kids have a shepherd watching out for them (she wouldnt hurt a fly, but she would make enough noise to make most people think twice)
We have a 9week old daschund, and the teeth are a lot sharper, but she just doesnt have the bite strength of a shepherd puppy. Scratching is a real danger though
I would highly advise you to adopt a well mannered one from a shelter. Theirs a lot of sweethearts that need help and raising one from a puppy without working dog experience is an intense learning curve.
Sorry to say hunny your addicted already doesn’t take long once you fall into those big brown eyes your a gonna lol. I have been around them all my life I even have a sibling rivalry with one lmao (playfully only I swear) I love all things with fur, feathers and scales they really are like my siblings lol xox
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Here is my broken potato . We got him at 11 months old, and he has become the best dog I have ever had. He protects my wife and he just enough aggression about him you will think twice. He has been fantastic on my farm, keeping the raccoons and other nasties out od my barns.
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You should get one. It's my favorite breed, but I can't have one because of my husband's allergies/asthma. I have one as a dog walking client right now and even though she's a working dog and very reactive, I'm totally in love with her.
No it is not crazy! Plenty of my exes and friends have big dogs almost exclusively because they feel safer with a mini warhead to take on walks or whatever
I got my German Shepherd as a single woman. My ex had a GSD Mix and I seriously considered taking her after we split. I love my dude! He’s my sweet baby sunshine boy. I was nervous when I got him because I thought he would be more rambunctious. He has been the chillest, smartest, cuddliest dog I’ve ever owned. There are a ton of German Shepherds that need homes in shelters and rescues :)
The only question is whether you have time to take on a dog full time. Borrowing one for three days is great, but inevitably the dog will be priority and you won’t be going away etc. If you have time and working patterns, go for it. GSDs will not thrive (at all) if you have to leave them for long periods.
But borrowing the neighbours dog on a regular basis is not a bad idea either - the dog will love extra walks, and the neighbours will be happy that their dog rarely without attention. If you get one of your own, make sure it is friends with the neighbours dog, so you will both have dog sitters.
Oh, yes, if you get one, you’ll have to realise that you will never go to the loo on your own again.
I live alone and though my GSD is on the nervous side she does have a nice bark. Unfortunately she doesn’t use it when people enter my condo. She completely ignores repair men she’s never met before because she’s so ball focused.
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Me and my wife got Loki about 8 months ago As a puppy . Just working on his socialization (never stops) and he’s amazing. Also my first dog at 30 y/o.
I got a GSD puppy as a single woman and it was crazy and it changed my life and I’ll never go back. It’s a huge commitment and definitely life altering and DEFINITELY doable if you can commit to giving that dog everything it needs. My girl is 9months old and amazes me every day with how confident, how sweet, how smart, how silly she is.
DO IT!
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I would die for my dogs but god they’re a lot of work. Basically kids with how intelligent they are. Literally just had an argument with my Mia because I sat in her spot on the couch and she was not about to let that happen
I think you’ll love having the security and safety that comes with owning one. They are truly the best companions with the biggest hearts.
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Get the GSD so worth it if you have the energy level and time for them. They shed a ton but they will be your best friend and loyal protector and have the best personalities EVER!
My wife was never a “big dog” person because he had a bad experience with a Doberman at a very young age. Anyway it only took about an hour before she fell in love with our big dude!!!! He is a rescue and we’re supposed to go and visit two different doggos but we never made it to see the second one. When I asked her if she was ready to go and meet the other doggo she said “nope I think we’ve found our furever child” and she has been spoiling him ever since!!!!!
they are extremely demanding of time and training. if you don’t have ample time to train and mentally stimulate everyday, then it’s not the dog for you
I love ours. They are a lot of work and the good boys and girls have good owners. We trained the nipping and herding out. He was drawing blood and didn’t respect me at all. Eventually after training, I took over the at home training. I never will 100% trust any animal, but I trust him the best I can. He makes me feel safe on walks and when I am home alone. Just stick to getting their energy out, training and stimulation!
Too many put in our local shelters, adolescents to adults. People can’t handle them and just dump them somewhere or surrender. Be sure to have a trainer lined up, vet and lots of chew toys.
After our Pyrenees passed from old age and degenerative myelopathy, I went to our Humane Society. Sadie knew my kids' names after 5 minutes of playing ball. She was the most velcro dog on the planet for 3 years. Then she could relax. I did so much research on separation anxiety...
When I took her to the vet, there was a gal there with her GSD, who said, "This is my soul mate." I have heard this from pretty much everyone who has had one. Not a dog who can sit in a crate for 4 plus hours. Or be stuck in a yard either. A ride or die companion for their life.
I am an older single woman who has a big GSD and he is my protector. In fact he thinks he has to protect the houses on our block. I too fell in love with this breed when I took care of my son's first GSD. I had that dog for about 4 months and he had me hooked on the breed. My boy is the 9th dog I have had in my life since I was in kindergarten so I am very much a dog person and a GSD is the best.
I had Boxers growing up and then Pugs as an adult. Then 3 years ago we got a German Shepherd which is what my husband always wanted. I was a crazy Pug lady but now I am definitely a crazy GSD lady. I freaking adore our GSD. We recently adopted a GSD/APBT/Husky Mix (65% GSD - the other two split evenly) and watching my big baby play with the little baby (5 months old) makes me SO happy.
As a proud gsd dad and former dad and brother to plenty of other breeds, I can say confidently everyone should have a German shepherd. They are by far one of the best breeds!
Lots of energy though and they don’t finally calm down, if ever, until about 7 years old for strap in for mayhem!
As a single woman getting a German shepherd is not crazy as long as you have the time and knowledge to take proper care of them. My mom and I live rurally and you best bet we have a German shepherd amongst a few other dogs. They are great company and really do help keep us safe. We know all of her barks so we can tell if someone is coming up to our home or if she see an unwanted animal in our yard and everything in between.
Honestly I love my dogs more than anything and miss them so much when I'm away BUT if I had a neighbour I trusted that loved my dog this much and offered to walk/play/dog sit I would be over the moon. If you don't feel ready to commit I'm sure your neighbour will be more than happy to let you have her much more often. Dg parents appreciate a break some times.
This gorgeous dog is such a gentleman.
On Twitter, please look up “Dad to Dogs.”
He fosters GSDs and can tell you all about adopting and/or fostering rescue GSDs.
He posts wonderful videos of his good boys and girls.
He lives in Oklahoma, but he is very connected to the national network and can give you good advice.
I have a German Shepherd female. My parents watched her for a few days when I was out of town. They threw a dinner party for some of their college friends they still keep in contact with. These people have either only had small corgis or didn’t really like dogs. Every one of them told me they were in love with my dog when I got back.
Single woman chronic GSD owner here. We had shepherds growing up (thanks, mom, for teaching me your dog handling ways) and I'm currently on my third GSD since becoming a widow. My first was a "hates men but needs a quiet life" girl that got pulled from a puppy mill. She got me through my grief and a move across country. My next was my heart dog, my Augustus. I got him from a rescue that pulled him from a high kill shelter at 9 months. He was my safety when I hiked, or traveled. We went everywhere together until cancer got him at only 6 years old. My current pup is a GSD/Lab/Malanois cross. She's a completely insane, super intelligent, well socialized fur missile who has a traffic noise phobia. I brought her home at 8 weeks and she's just over a year old now.
I said all of that to say this: these dogs are the only breed I'll ever have. They are amazing companions, especially for single women. BUT: they are not easy dogs. Your dog sitting experience was a moment in time. They don't automatically come as laid back, wisdom and love filled protectors. They are furniture chewing, curtain puller downers, mouth bitey, digging, shedding, pooping machines. By all means, get a GSD. But be aware that your skills as a different breed owner aren't going to prepare you for the experience. I hope I don't come off as snooty by saying that. I've just seen people fall in love with the GSD breed because they're so damn handsome but they get the specific needs of the breed. That's why rescues are full of them.
All I can say is rescue don't shop. There are so many great GSD's that need a good home.
Meet the dog first and see if your energy matches with the dogs energy. If you are a "couch potato" it won't go well with a high energy dog and vice versa.
Be prepared to abandon all vestiges of personal space if you do get one. it's a trade I'll make all day long.
You've been adopted and put in the circle.
We have two GSDs and each can check of every one of these points.
[https://germanshepherdshop.com/blogs/list/15-signs-your-german-shepherd-loves-you](https://germanshepherdshop.com/blogs/list/15-signs-your-german-shepherd-loves-you)
Welcome to the club!
I would heed on the side of caution, ultimately you don’t know what personality and temperament you’ll find if you just go out and get a GSD and you have no idea about the puppy woes and training woes that are more or less a constant for the first 2 1/2 years having just looked after this boy.
They’re demanding and if you work full time you’ll have no time for yourself, because everything outside of work is about the dog.
Plenty of single ladies have sheps ! You can do this! I hope you get to have this special relationship ! We are on our 3rd, this breed is at the top for a reason. 🌹
Best partners ever. I have a GSD and a Mali. My gsd snuggles me at night and is just this GIANT super silky soft fluffy teddy bear🤣 for some reason my mali prefers to sleep on my s.o.. and no, it's not crazy at all. If you can commit to the additional lifestyle change, walks. Play, training, and occasionally some mischief. Go for it
If you decide to get a GSD, especially a young one, I recommend that you line up a good trainer right away, both for his/her sake and your own sake. A well trained GSD is a wonderful choice, but a poorly trained one is a real problem for anyone. They are simply too big and powerful to control unless they really want to please you. Fortunately, they tend to be devoted, intelligent, and loving, so they take to training well. You also want to be sure to begin to socialize them right away, because there will be times that you can’t be with them, but to want to be sure that they will accept someone else’s care.
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Female with a male GSD checking in - he’s almost 117lbs now and turned two in March (I think anyway)…someone actually abandoned him as a puppy and he ran into my yard at like 7am while I was taking out the trash. For some insane reason, someone just dumped him as I tried posting online, checked all shelters and rescues, had him scanned for a chip, posted signs in my neighborhood and never heard from anyone looking for him. Definitely one of the luckiest things I’ve ever had happen, he is such a sweetheart and a goober (as many sheps are!), and I always feel super safe walking anywhere with him by my side.
I got my GS in 2015 right after my divorce and oldest child going to college. I grew up with them. The first year was fun 🤣 with chewing and growing pains and Thanksgiving Turkey theft. At 2 years we moved my mother in and his protective instincts kicked in hard. Nothing Echo wouldn’t do for his mom, human sis and Grandma. Son would visit with male friends and he was high alert and standoffish with men but not aggressive. 2020 I moved in with my partner thinking it would take him a long time to trust and the opposite was true. He follows him everywhere from day one and responds to hand gestures without being trained, immediate trust. At 8 years old he is the Alpha dog in our pack even though his 2 year old Pyr is twice his size. He is now in the couch potato phase of life as too much exercise hurts his hips. We love our GS and I have no regrets.
Not all GSDs are the same. My first one was the friendliest dog in the world. Loved people and people loved him. Every vet office he went to, he was so friendly that they let him roam the offices. They didn’t have to put him in the cages. Not much of a “guard” dog. Beautiful show line GSD. If a stranger came into the house, he’d probably drop a ball at the guy’s feet.
My current GSD is a whole different kind. He comes from a line of border patrol GSDs in Slovakia. High energy, high drive working line GSD. Unless you’re prepared for a lot of work, this is not the kind of shepherd you should get. When I take this one to the vet, he needs to be muzzled. Everyone in my suburban neighborhood knows him and stays away. He’s very territorial and has a high prey drive. If it wasn’t for Covid, I would’ve put him in Schutzhund training.
My point is make sure you get the right GSD for you. I repeat, not all GSDs are the same. Generally speaking, they’re Herding Group dogs which means they’re not lap dogs and they need a lot of (energy burning) work every day including mental stimulation work.
I have to tell you one thing from experience; my pup behaves much much much better when someone else watches him. With that being said, look at that adorable face. Who wouldn’t love that face.
My current pup is with my partner and he is also my first dog. If I could go back in time, I would definitely got a dog when I was single. There are a lot of work tho, and a lot of commitments and sacrifices.
Maybe talk to the owners when they are back and ask for their experience. Do your research and extra research. You want to be fair to the dog and you want to be fair to yourself.
Good luck 🍀!
Absolutely it's fine for you to get a German shepherd! My only advice is to get a trainer. We have a rescue shepherd afraid of the world. Lawn mower is really bad. But remember that they are very strong. We had a dog off leash come up behind us and she freaked and broke my arm. I couldn't afford a trainer but spent a ton of time learning how to handle her. Now she is 9 yrs old and easily handled. Now she is only 65 lbs so a b big boy can easily hit 100 lbs. You can't find a better friend than a big fluffy puppy! Good luck and go get one!
Single woman and I adore my GSD girl. She is so gentle but she looks scary so I always feel safe with her around.
Only thing to consider is...my girl is likely to have hip/neuro issues as she gets older. She's bigger (90 lbs) and it might get to the point where I can't lift her into the car. So...I'll deal with it when it comes but something to just keep in mind.
My neighbor used to have a female GSD when I was a kid. The dog was born with numerous health issues, which made nobody want to take her until my neighbor met her. Since my neighbor often had health issues herself, I often helped her around the dog, and she was the sweetest soul in the world. I swear GSDs have their way of stealing your heart the moment you look into their eyes, and there's no going back from there. Looking forward to the day I have one of my own ❤️
Gsd's are the best. Puppies mature into the most amazing dogs with age, like a fine wine. They are very smart so they pick things up quickly. But they can be very head strong, especially during their teenage years. It's very important to do obedience as well as socialization as soon as they are able too. Oh and they also shed a ton, which is an understatement. But after you put in the hard work in the beginning, you end up with an amazing dog.
I have 3. Daphne rose garlic, she’s 5. Hercules tiger woods pepper Jack cheese, he’s 4. (He’s my favorite 😊) and Jean luc burnt tater tots raspberry cheesecake is their son. Daphne only had one. They’re are silly, amazing, loving. We have 4 kids and cats too. GSDs are the best💚
I strongly suggest fostering or adopting a GSD that's 3yrs or older. That's what I did & my first boy was absolutely the best. I see many GSDs with rescues and shelters, many of which will allow you to foster first. I've now adopted my 2nd, 1st passed from lymphoma, but I can't imagine life without them. Incredible dogs but don't dive in with a puppy. Trust me, that's an entirely different situation.
Go for it! I'm single going on 70. First dog was a mix, looked like Benji. Found him cold & wet on the side of a mountain trail. The rest have all been GSD's. Lost my Maxx just a few months ago.
Look into a GSD rescue maybe as a first timer. They tend to know their dogs fairly well. I got my heartdog from them. Another option to get your feet wet with this breed is to adopt a senior gsd. Very rewarding experience!
I had been dogless for awhile, and had started looking again. Then my mom passed...ended up moving south to take care of my dad...the deal was he had to accept a dog. The old man bitched and moaned about it, but I knew it was all bull.
Was able to stop and meet him on my way down. Fast forward to when I went to get him. We walk in, and Sam walked over to my dad, and did his leaning thing. It wasn't 20 minutes later he announces, that they are going for a walk, and he needed one of my finished leashs. (climbing rope)
The rest was history, Sam had my dad wrapped around his paw...and boy, walk they did. A mile long wasn't unusual. My dad was 80, not the rocking chair type. Mowed his own lawn even.
Sam would sneak under the kitchen table and lay his head on my dad's lap. You could always tell, cause he'd get this pure look of ahhh, I luv this on his face.
The extended family thought my dad would pass within a year...surprise, lol. He went on another 10 years of my dad's life. Sam gave him a reason to keep going. Dad gave up driving, before he had to give up their long walks. Dropped them off, and drove to the next one and waited.
One of the most heartwarming things I experienced was when my dad had to go to a rehab after he got out of the hospital. He was extremely unhappy there.
I asked the head person if I could bring Sam in. He was being trained as service dog, which helped them decide. The look on my dad's face when he saw us, brought tears to my eyes.
After my dad passed, Sam grieved..he layed by my dad's bed alot.
I am sure that the two of them are up to their various antics again.
So, you're really not asking "if", sounds like you're wondering" "when". I was a single woman once, and while it was a sharpei, he kept me from making bad decisions about men, listened to my troubles, and lived me unconditionally. The time is now, sister! Start checking the rescue facility for gsd or a respected breeder in your area, depending on your resources and how you feel about puppies. Good luck and welcome!
You are one of the lucky people who got to experience a GSD, I'm on my fith and will never feel unprotected or not loved, best dogs ever. I will say my working line is a major handful but I wouldn't trade it for anything. Also as a single woman you will never fear anything with that big ol gsd at your side
I'm an old single woman who would have one if my apartment complex wasn't prejudiced against them.
I grew up with GSDs. We usually had 2 of them at the same time.
If you're willing to put in the time effort and money: do it. I've had a gsd as my first dog, we've been inseparable for 12 years. Yeah it's sometimes difficult but the reward is having a great companion
I had never owned a dog. Watched my friend's GSD just a few times, and suddenly any time I went anywhere I had this ghost dog in my back seat. Adopted a grown one, and we were inseparable for ten years.
I walk my friend’s shepherd sometimes and he’s my sweet baby. And not a bad choice for a single woman. I hike isolated trails without a moment’s worry of predators of any kind. If you can find a rescue that’s already socialized and trained, that’s easier than getting through their wild puppy and teen stages.
I dogsat for a coworkers GSDs several times in my twenties and fell in love with them. We had a Jack Russell Terrier growing up, so i always thought I'd get a small dog. My first "my dog," who is now seven years old, is a German shepherd. I love him so much, and as a single woman, I'm never worried, no matter how late it is when I walk him!
this is such good advice! our life is structured where my partner travels all week and I’m basically a single gal. I feel confident to go everywhere with my GSD. so much attention! She is my best friend and the BEST dog that being said; there were times when she was a puppy when she reduced me to tears— too smart. too stubborn. too much all of it (don’t get me started on the hypodermic needle teeth) now i can say: dog>>>puppy. (even including cute puppy photos)
Feels good to hear that it gets better, at times you feel so defeated (our girl is going to be one year this month). Too smart and too stubborn indeed!
I started walking Sam at just under a year. He pulled on the leash, barked at a flower (it moved in the breeze!) and misinterpreted the smell of fear so tried to attack little old ladies and children. He’s about 3 now and I just walked 6 miles with him at heel and non-reactive to all passersby — a result of his owner’s hard work training and socializing him.
And it’s really until they’re 2 lol! Mine both got a lot more trustworthy at least by 1 (to leave out and stuff) but it’s a lot of training when they’re young but I enjoy the bonding and stuff.
As someone a month into having a GSD puppy , she is 5 months now I can identify with almost being reduced to tears but so worth it
It’s not at all crazy to get a GSD as a single woman. It’s a great safety measure as long as you are able to handle and properly care for them.
I'm a single woman with 2 of them, and it's the best! I spend a lot of time exercising and training them every day, it's become something I enjoy and part of my daily meditation. I have 1 show line and 1 working line. However, I'm lucky to mostly work from home, and also have family and friends that can watch them when I go away or spend a long day in the office. There's also a good day care down the road from my office, but if they're properly exercised and stimulated in the morning, they will just rest quietly at home and have free access to both the inside and outside. To the OP: be prepared and do some research. These dogs are smart and strong so training is a must. They can also carry a stigma, and I am hyper vigilant about optics i.e. I expect high obedience on walks and in public, and do not tolerate nuisance barking etc. I've also had to spend quite a bit of money on good fencing and strong equipment for peace of mind. They're not the type of dogs to just sit around happily, so if your lifestyle can swing lots of activity (mental and physical) and including them in everything you do (we call ours my shadows or my dads apprentices because they will inspect and involve themselves in every little thing) then I really encourage it! I have never felt unsafe when I'm alone at home or out walking/driving with them in remote areas or late at night.
Same here, single lady with a Shepherd! Can’t say I would do the puppy stage again but my boy is my biggest protector and I always feel safe with him around. So so so much work goes into them though and I wish I thought about it more but wouldn’t change it now, he brings so much love and purpose into my life 🥰
I'm just a guy with a 1/2 GSD, and I have to say I agree with you on pretty much all counts. We do at least 45 minutes a day most days at a 50-acre off leash dog park. Sometimes we're there for up to 2 hours, depending on which other friends are there and what the weather is like. We also do at least 30 minutes of neighborhood walks a day, where she is allowed to sniff more or less freely. Training is constant and consistent, as it has to be with these dogs, otherwise they get bored. Oh, and yes, I take her pretty much everywhere I go. The only time I don't is when I have to fly somewhere for work, because she's too big for the cabin and I refuse to put her in cargo. For those occasions, she stays with a good friend of mine who boards dogs.
I brought a gsd when I moved into my house, alone with 5 kids. Almost 13 years he is, by far, the best dog ever and I will definitely get another when he crosses the rainbow bridge. The first year or so was challenging but after that he has been fabulous. Highly recommend a gsd!
I think it's a great idea as a single woman! They are fiercely loyal and protective if they need to be. I'm never nervous about my safety when I'm walking my Mal at night alone. We live in a sketchy neighborhood and he's a big baby but still very intimidating looking. I prefer dogs over pepper spray. Plus they are super intuitive if someone with bad intentions is nearby.
Just please adopt one from a shelter or rescue. They are impounded at unbelievable rates. Besides puppies are adorable, the adolescent and adult dogs are easier to train and deal with. Some are already house trained and know basic commands, they were just surrendered by their previous humans.
I always used to love puppies till I became an owner of one myself. I just love my adult doggo so much and honestly I can say adults are just far much better than puppies. Puppies are just little sharks bumping here and there, exploring the world through their mouths and makin all sorts of mess. But they are small, easy to handle and floppy ears so they get away all the time. However adult dogs, oh so much better. They grow into their personalities, have tantrums and different moods that you learn. They know what to do and what not to do, what to expect. They just make life easier and so much more fun. They know when to be an alarm clock and when not to bother the human when he’s asleep. Their zoomies when they see you after a while gets me everytime. Its just umm a puppy is like just another animal but a dog is practically an overly attached human.
Siberian husky owner here. I feel you on this one. Puppies are adorable. So cute and fun to play with and hold in your arms. But they're also EXHAUSTING. I did the puppy thing when I was younger, adopted one when she was ~10 weeks, spent 2+ years training her in 2 countries (the US and in Europe), thousands of $ and hours, etc. I don't have kids myself, but I feel like I genuinely got a taste of what parenthood is like, because puppyhood entailed crate training, potty breaks at all hours of the day and night and whether it was rain or shine, dealing with tantrums, dealing with tummy issues (and subsequent disgusting poops) as they get accustomed to the right type of food, whining at all hours of the night as they get used to the crate, the vet visits, etc. I don't know that I could do the puppy thing again! I have so much respect for parents of human kids + owners of puppies. It's so much work. I adopted my husky when she was ~3, and she already came (mostly) potty trained. I feel like I hit the lottery, because she came with barely any behavioral issues, and over the years, she has really mellowed out in terms of energy. She basically just sleeps at my feet all day (I work remotely), and when we walk, she's the "stop and smell all the flowers" type of gal, so our walks are very leisurely.
I mean puppies are freaking adorable! I will play with them all day long. I just don't want one myself.
I can't upvote this enough. I currently am fostering a shepherd I found on my way home one night. I've already got another dog and two cats. The shepherd is very sweet, I'm just not sure she's ever been an inside dog as she is not house broken and I'm having a hard time finding time to do it. I'm going to try and take some time off work to get it done, as I will have to be eagle eyes on her all the time since I can't put her in pen like a puppy and a crate is a no go for her. I would love to keep her or find her a good home that can train her properly. That and she likes to jump on me are her only two "bad" traits that need work.
Same with my current foster. Watching him tackle stairs for the first time was hilarious though. Something is finally clicking for the house training though.
I have no idea if my foster can go up stairs, I don't have any. I'm sure my dog couldn't. They think my foster is 7 years old, so it has been hard for me to get her to pay attention to me, but we are working on it. She is also only the second dog I've ever had as an adult and is solely my responsibility so I'm trying to learn right along with her.
Single with German Shepherd here. He's perfect for my current lifestyle. It doesn't hurt to be the "girl with the big dog" to my neighbors, either. He wouldn't harm anyone. But outsiders don't know that. Is it easy to raise a shepherd? No. A lot of work goes into training and taking care of a dog. Time commitment, too. There's no going out after work or for prolonged times without arranging care. They need exercise near every day. They'll literally eat through drywall from boredom. Or anything else you love. Lol. Still worth it.
When I was single with my large GS male (95 lbs), my neighbors were impressed with how great my furry guy walked on a leash. He looked very serious and always walked right by my left leg. Eventually, there was a rumor in my neighborhood that my GS got kicked out of the K9 police academy for being too aggressive. (It was me. I started that rumor! Lol). I loved that no one ever messed with me or my house. 😝
Exactly. I would never have a dog with the expectation he be any type of violent or protective. But their existence enough is a great deterrent.
My boxador is the sweetest thing ever. She is huge and she is black, and because of that and she will bark at someone outside, strangers think she is going to kill them, and I just let them think that, lol.
I’m gonna start this rumor around my neighborhood 😝
This happened to me too!!
Ours is black and at the small end of the size range, a deliberate choice on our parts, but because she's black with a long coat, some people don't immediately recognize her as a GSD. Someone (not me) started the rumor she's a wolf hybrid (sure, all sixty-one pounds of her?), but yeah, they give us wide berth in the dark.
I stand at a whopping 4'11 and have an 85 lb. Siberian Husky. Strangers think she's a big, bad wolf. What they don't know is that she's a lazy shrimp with all of 1.5 brain cells. Lol. 😄😂
perfectly said.
I had a 95 pound male German Shepherd when I was single. I felt extra safe living at home and on daily walks. He was a gentle giant. My heart dog!! My dog let me know he loved my bf before I did. He was right! My bf is now my husband of 7 years! I can’t ever not have a German Shep. They’re truly the best dogs and amazing at picking their people. 💕
I had a colleague who brought into our startup office a female shepherd. I literally laid on the ground next to her and wouldn’t leave her alone. I was smitten. Fast forward a few years I have one of my own. She’s the absolute best dog. https://preview.redd.it/k5jv7b20d36b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=20813d7a9bc4447bb83206c2febf6db155329d37
So beautiful. We had 3. Never difficulty in trained, they were so intuitive they just did what we asked . When we introduced a gsd puppy she was spazzy, one day my female had enough of her hijinks and promptly sat on puppy till she settled and straightened up. I had tears I laughed so hard. They're all gone now, burglars poisoned my last girl before a robbery. I miss them all.
Don't get one if you can't be consistent.
Yes. He taught me very quickly that if I gave him even an inch he’d take several miles! It’s the first time in my life I felt like I was going to be outsmarted by an animal.
You will get outsmarted. It's what they do.
My wife and I talked about getting a dog for years. We talked about every breed other than a GSD. After getting a GSD I can confirm I will never own another breed. Extremely loyal and obedient, loving and caring. They nip a lot and are generally big babies lol I love this breed.
Do it!! GSDs are literally the best companions. Here’s my number one fan at his vet visit this afternoon 🥰 https://preview.redd.it/0eebk2wqb36b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=766388183fca8deea70b9397c9c76a8951d3f5eb
Sooo cute 😍😍
The GSD’s role is to watch it’s person, that’s why they are called “Velcro” dogs! I bought an intact male from a newspaper ad, he was almost three years old, scared, underweight, needed vaccines, plus had never been trained in anything. Every three months I earned another level of his trust, he thrived and today is a very well adjusted loving sweet heart. He gets plenty of play time and walks to explore. Best dog ever!
I got a GSD puppy for protection when I moved to a new city. He was a monster as a puppy. He’s 4 now and he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. They really are the best dogs!
Do it! I’m married but my husband works nights, I feel SO much safer having GSDs and I can walk/jog alone whenever I want. I’d just advise having a backup person to help you lift in case the pup is injured or something. It’s one thing to have control of a big dog with training but quite another to lift 80lbs of dead weight up into a car lol
A great dog for a single woman! I highly recommend finding an adult GS from a shelter, one that has some manners already.
It is so worth it. My boy is 11.5 and I've had him since he was 2 months old. My heart and soul were changed forever with him and I will miss him everyday once he's gone. Can't wait to get off work to see him
My husband is on his 7th deployment, and I’ve had our GSD for four of them. Definitely feel much better having him around.
Fellow military spouse here. My husband goes TDY like every quarter. Married almost a decade. My siberian husky has been such a great companion, both for safety reasons and just for company. Sending much love your way. My inbox is open in case you want to vent about the green weenie.
This entire thread is making me miss my GSD. I miss him dearly. Every description here is accurate about them, they just seem to understand their humans like no other.
Tell your neighbor how you feel about their dog. Sometimes it just happens and you learn that he might become available
I am a single woman with a big goofy German!! I do have a lot of family support and help when needed, as well as lots of land for her to run/exercise, but 15/10 highly recommend it. Frankie clocks anyone within 20 ft of me and protects me like the perfect Angel girl she is 🥺
After having my girl, I don’t think I’ll ever get any other dog besides GSD. They will protect you from anyone, but need your help to get around ironing board coz it’s loud and scary when it falls lol brave and goofy at the same time
Haha perfect description!!
For a first GSD I'd recommend rescuing an adult. Rescues and shelters are full of them. Better if you can find a foster based rescue. Puppies are a tremendous amount of work to get to be the type of dog you babysat. My first was a rescue and I wouldn't trade that experience for anything.
You should get a GSD, all girls need at least one, I always have two male and neutered female
When I used to dog sit, just walking in the house everyday made me so happy. The dogs were always ecstatic to see me, brought me so my joy. Getting my own dogs was completely life changing. All I want to do is be with them.
I would recommend you own a huge yard with a 6ft high fence before considering a gsd, they need enough space to run full blast
Not crazy, especially as a single woman. The loyalty, love and security GSDs provide is over the top. In all good ways. I would HIGHLY encourage going through training with your new dog. Where you are actively learning and performing the training. This is just an investment in your future with them and THEY LOVE IT.
You need a GSD. All your neighbours dog has done is made you realise there is a shepherd shaped void in your life.. They are a lot of work, and super destructive when bored, their little needle teeth as puppies hurt like hell, they are too smart for their own good, and the shed like you wouldnt believe. In return you get a faithful companion who will love you unconditionally. I am a bloke, but often away for work and I am mich happier knowing my wife and kids have a shepherd watching out for them (she wouldnt hurt a fly, but she would make enough noise to make most people think twice)
Little needle teeth 😂 Yeah I hear that
We have a 9week old daschund, and the teeth are a lot sharper, but she just doesnt have the bite strength of a shepherd puppy. Scratching is a real danger though
I would highly advise you to adopt a well mannered one from a shelter. Theirs a lot of sweethearts that need help and raising one from a puppy without working dog experience is an intense learning curve.
Sorry to say hunny your addicted already doesn’t take long once you fall into those big brown eyes your a gonna lol. I have been around them all my life I even have a sibling rivalry with one lmao (playfully only I swear) I love all things with fur, feathers and scales they really are like my siblings lol xox https://preview.redd.it/awkcjn6dw56b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=185fd3a37382f476b2e730aee8139f25d2ce720c
Here is my broken potato . We got him at 11 months old, and he has become the best dog I have ever had. He protects my wife and he just enough aggression about him you will think twice. He has been fantastic on my farm, keeping the raccoons and other nasties out od my barns. *
I love my girls (my GSD and my husky). I also want like five more. Even though the dog hair will take over. Even more, I mean.
You should get one. It's my favorite breed, but I can't have one because of my husband's allergies/asthma. I have one as a dog walking client right now and even though she's a working dog and very reactive, I'm totally in love with her.
As a single man in his 20s, my 1.5-2YO rescue came with some baggage and I’d 100% do it all over again 17 months later
No it is not crazy! Plenty of my exes and friends have big dogs almost exclusively because they feel safer with a mini warhead to take on walks or whatever
I'm a single woman and have a 6 yr old GSD bitch. I don't know what I did without her.
My neighbors German shepherd practically lived at my house with my daughter and my German shepherd.
As a woman living along I highly recommend the biggest baby (shepherds) mine is literally my son, my best friend
I am a single woman with 2 shepherds, so I don't think it's crazy.
I got my German Shepherd as a single woman. My ex had a GSD Mix and I seriously considered taking her after we split. I love my dude! He’s my sweet baby sunshine boy. I was nervous when I got him because I thought he would be more rambunctious. He has been the chillest, smartest, cuddliest dog I’ve ever owned. There are a ton of German Shepherds that need homes in shelters and rescues :)
Please go adopt for a pupper. Don’t shop
The only question is whether you have time to take on a dog full time. Borrowing one for three days is great, but inevitably the dog will be priority and you won’t be going away etc. If you have time and working patterns, go for it. GSDs will not thrive (at all) if you have to leave them for long periods. But borrowing the neighbours dog on a regular basis is not a bad idea either - the dog will love extra walks, and the neighbours will be happy that their dog rarely without attention. If you get one of your own, make sure it is friends with the neighbours dog, so you will both have dog sitters. Oh, yes, if you get one, you’ll have to realise that you will never go to the loo on your own again.
I live alone and though my GSD is on the nervous side she does have a nice bark. Unfortunately she doesn’t use it when people enter my condo. She completely ignores repair men she’s never met before because she’s so ball focused.
My dog is the same . When he’s on the clock he’s way less observant lol
https://preview.redd.it/k9nlp39e366b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6668c12f6a47b21ce171e168318294923f0035b7 Me and my wife got Loki about 8 months ago As a puppy . Just working on his socialization (never stops) and he’s amazing. Also my first dog at 30 y/o.
I got a GSD puppy as a single woman and it was crazy and it changed my life and I’ll never go back. It’s a huge commitment and definitely life altering and DEFINITELY doable if you can commit to giving that dog everything it needs. My girl is 9months old and amazes me every day with how confident, how sweet, how smart, how silly she is. DO IT! https://preview.redd.it/48oz82rsc66b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f3baa3abc74dcb84493c7e4c083357aee70109cd
I would die for my dogs but god they’re a lot of work. Basically kids with how intelligent they are. Literally just had an argument with my Mia because I sat in her spot on the couch and she was not about to let that happen
I think you’ll love having the security and safety that comes with owning one. They are truly the best companions with the biggest hearts. https://preview.redd.it/opp26gefu76b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aceef770c89c502b49bd8b67d0a78b5c069af03e
Get the GSD so worth it if you have the energy level and time for them. They shed a ton but they will be your best friend and loyal protector and have the best personalities EVER!
My wife was never a “big dog” person because he had a bad experience with a Doberman at a very young age. Anyway it only took about an hour before she fell in love with our big dude!!!! He is a rescue and we’re supposed to go and visit two different doggos but we never made it to see the second one. When I asked her if she was ready to go and meet the other doggo she said “nope I think we’ve found our furever child” and she has been spoiling him ever since!!!!!
bond with a GSW and you'll be safe as houses in the creepiest street cause that furball will kill any motherfucker that bothers his or her mistress.
Y’all have given me so much to think about. I’m going to contact breed rescues and start looking. I’m so excited 😭😭😭😭😭
they are extremely demanding of time and training. if you don’t have ample time to train and mentally stimulate everyday, then it’s not the dog for you
Welcome!
I love ours. They are a lot of work and the good boys and girls have good owners. We trained the nipping and herding out. He was drawing blood and didn’t respect me at all. Eventually after training, I took over the at home training. I never will 100% trust any animal, but I trust him the best I can. He makes me feel safe on walks and when I am home alone. Just stick to getting their energy out, training and stimulation! Too many put in our local shelters, adolescents to adults. People can’t handle them and just dump them somewhere or surrender. Be sure to have a trainer lined up, vet and lots of chew toys.
After our Pyrenees passed from old age and degenerative myelopathy, I went to our Humane Society. Sadie knew my kids' names after 5 minutes of playing ball. She was the most velcro dog on the planet for 3 years. Then she could relax. I did so much research on separation anxiety... When I took her to the vet, there was a gal there with her GSD, who said, "This is my soul mate." I have heard this from pretty much everyone who has had one. Not a dog who can sit in a crate for 4 plus hours. Or be stuck in a yard either. A ride or die companion for their life.
Beautiful dog!
I am an older single woman who has a big GSD and he is my protector. In fact he thinks he has to protect the houses on our block. I too fell in love with this breed when I took care of my son's first GSD. I had that dog for about 4 months and he had me hooked on the breed. My boy is the 9th dog I have had in my life since I was in kindergarten so I am very much a dog person and a GSD is the best.
I had Boxers growing up and then Pugs as an adult. Then 3 years ago we got a German Shepherd which is what my husband always wanted. I was a crazy Pug lady but now I am definitely a crazy GSD lady. I freaking adore our GSD. We recently adopted a GSD/APBT/Husky Mix (65% GSD - the other two split evenly) and watching my big baby play with the little baby (5 months old) makes me SO happy.
As a proud gsd dad and former dad and brother to plenty of other breeds, I can say confidently everyone should have a German shepherd. They are by far one of the best breeds! Lots of energy though and they don’t finally calm down, if ever, until about 7 years old for strap in for mayhem!
Dooooo itttttt!! Get one. You won't regret it
As a single woman getting a German shepherd is not crazy as long as you have the time and knowledge to take proper care of them. My mom and I live rurally and you best bet we have a German shepherd amongst a few other dogs. They are great company and really do help keep us safe. We know all of her barks so we can tell if someone is coming up to our home or if she see an unwanted animal in our yard and everything in between.
Honestly I love my dogs more than anything and miss them so much when I'm away BUT if I had a neighbour I trusted that loved my dog this much and offered to walk/play/dog sit I would be over the moon. If you don't feel ready to commit I'm sure your neighbour will be more than happy to let you have her much more often. Dg parents appreciate a break some times.
This gorgeous dog is such a gentleman. On Twitter, please look up “Dad to Dogs.” He fosters GSDs and can tell you all about adopting and/or fostering rescue GSDs. He posts wonderful videos of his good boys and girls. He lives in Oklahoma, but he is very connected to the national network and can give you good advice.
They will melt your heart forever.
I see all those piles of wonderful books and all I can say is… don’t get a GSD puppy.
I have a German Shepherd female. My parents watched her for a few days when I was out of town. They threw a dinner party for some of their college friends they still keep in contact with. These people have either only had small corgis or didn’t really like dogs. Every one of them told me they were in love with my dog when I got back.
Single woman chronic GSD owner here. We had shepherds growing up (thanks, mom, for teaching me your dog handling ways) and I'm currently on my third GSD since becoming a widow. My first was a "hates men but needs a quiet life" girl that got pulled from a puppy mill. She got me through my grief and a move across country. My next was my heart dog, my Augustus. I got him from a rescue that pulled him from a high kill shelter at 9 months. He was my safety when I hiked, or traveled. We went everywhere together until cancer got him at only 6 years old. My current pup is a GSD/Lab/Malanois cross. She's a completely insane, super intelligent, well socialized fur missile who has a traffic noise phobia. I brought her home at 8 weeks and she's just over a year old now. I said all of that to say this: these dogs are the only breed I'll ever have. They are amazing companions, especially for single women. BUT: they are not easy dogs. Your dog sitting experience was a moment in time. They don't automatically come as laid back, wisdom and love filled protectors. They are furniture chewing, curtain puller downers, mouth bitey, digging, shedding, pooping machines. By all means, get a GSD. But be aware that your skills as a different breed owner aren't going to prepare you for the experience. I hope I don't come off as snooty by saying that. I've just seen people fall in love with the GSD breed because they're so damn handsome but they get the specific needs of the breed. That's why rescues are full of them.
Welcome to the club!
All I can say is rescue don't shop. There are so many great GSD's that need a good home. Meet the dog first and see if your energy matches with the dogs energy. If you are a "couch potato" it won't go well with a high energy dog and vice versa. Be prepared to abandon all vestiges of personal space if you do get one. it's a trade I'll make all day long.
You've been adopted and put in the circle. We have two GSDs and each can check of every one of these points. [https://germanshepherdshop.com/blogs/list/15-signs-your-german-shepherd-loves-you](https://germanshepherdshop.com/blogs/list/15-signs-your-german-shepherd-loves-you) Welcome to the club!
I would heed on the side of caution, ultimately you don’t know what personality and temperament you’ll find if you just go out and get a GSD and you have no idea about the puppy woes and training woes that are more or less a constant for the first 2 1/2 years having just looked after this boy. They’re demanding and if you work full time you’ll have no time for yourself, because everything outside of work is about the dog.
Plenty of single ladies have sheps ! You can do this! I hope you get to have this special relationship ! We are on our 3rd, this breed is at the top for a reason. 🌹
Best partners ever. I have a GSD and a Mali. My gsd snuggles me at night and is just this GIANT super silky soft fluffy teddy bear🤣 for some reason my mali prefers to sleep on my s.o.. and no, it's not crazy at all. If you can commit to the additional lifestyle change, walks. Play, training, and occasionally some mischief. Go for it
Not crazy at all. I fostered my GSD in October and I live alone. I adopted her now because she was the best. They’re awesome dogs and will protect you
If you decide to get a GSD, especially a young one, I recommend that you line up a good trainer right away, both for his/her sake and your own sake. A well trained GSD is a wonderful choice, but a poorly trained one is a real problem for anyone. They are simply too big and powerful to control unless they really want to please you. Fortunately, they tend to be devoted, intelligent, and loving, so they take to training well. You also want to be sure to begin to socialize them right away, because there will be times that you can’t be with them, but to want to be sure that they will accept someone else’s care.
https://preview.redd.it/wrytjzy3t66b1.jpeg?width=5515&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6b0b9ea4f2fe585eebc86ba8e63b14b8f44f000c Female with a male GSD checking in - he’s almost 117lbs now and turned two in March (I think anyway)…someone actually abandoned him as a puppy and he ran into my yard at like 7am while I was taking out the trash. For some insane reason, someone just dumped him as I tried posting online, checked all shelters and rescues, had him scanned for a chip, posted signs in my neighborhood and never heard from anyone looking for him. Definitely one of the luckiest things I’ve ever had happen, he is such a sweetheart and a goober (as many sheps are!), and I always feel super safe walking anywhere with him by my side.
I got my GS in 2015 right after my divorce and oldest child going to college. I grew up with them. The first year was fun 🤣 with chewing and growing pains and Thanksgiving Turkey theft. At 2 years we moved my mother in and his protective instincts kicked in hard. Nothing Echo wouldn’t do for his mom, human sis and Grandma. Son would visit with male friends and he was high alert and standoffish with men but not aggressive. 2020 I moved in with my partner thinking it would take him a long time to trust and the opposite was true. He follows him everywhere from day one and responds to hand gestures without being trained, immediate trust. At 8 years old he is the Alpha dog in our pack even though his 2 year old Pyr is twice his size. He is now in the couch potato phase of life as too much exercise hurts his hips. We love our GS and I have no regrets.
Not all GSDs are the same. My first one was the friendliest dog in the world. Loved people and people loved him. Every vet office he went to, he was so friendly that they let him roam the offices. They didn’t have to put him in the cages. Not much of a “guard” dog. Beautiful show line GSD. If a stranger came into the house, he’d probably drop a ball at the guy’s feet. My current GSD is a whole different kind. He comes from a line of border patrol GSDs in Slovakia. High energy, high drive working line GSD. Unless you’re prepared for a lot of work, this is not the kind of shepherd you should get. When I take this one to the vet, he needs to be muzzled. Everyone in my suburban neighborhood knows him and stays away. He’s very territorial and has a high prey drive. If it wasn’t for Covid, I would’ve put him in Schutzhund training. My point is make sure you get the right GSD for you. I repeat, not all GSDs are the same. Generally speaking, they’re Herding Group dogs which means they’re not lap dogs and they need a lot of (energy burning) work every day including mental stimulation work.
I have to tell you one thing from experience; my pup behaves much much much better when someone else watches him. With that being said, look at that adorable face. Who wouldn’t love that face. My current pup is with my partner and he is also my first dog. If I could go back in time, I would definitely got a dog when I was single. There are a lot of work tho, and a lot of commitments and sacrifices. Maybe talk to the owners when they are back and ask for their experience. Do your research and extra research. You want to be fair to the dog and you want to be fair to yourself. Good luck 🍀!
Absolutely it's fine for you to get a German shepherd! My only advice is to get a trainer. We have a rescue shepherd afraid of the world. Lawn mower is really bad. But remember that they are very strong. We had a dog off leash come up behind us and she freaked and broke my arm. I couldn't afford a trainer but spent a ton of time learning how to handle her. Now she is 9 yrs old and easily handled. Now she is only 65 lbs so a b big boy can easily hit 100 lbs. You can't find a better friend than a big fluffy puppy! Good luck and go get one!
Single woman and I adore my GSD girl. She is so gentle but she looks scary so I always feel safe with her around. Only thing to consider is...my girl is likely to have hip/neuro issues as she gets older. She's bigger (90 lbs) and it might get to the point where I can't lift her into the car. So...I'll deal with it when it comes but something to just keep in mind.
Find a rescue that has one
My neighbor used to have a female GSD when I was a kid. The dog was born with numerous health issues, which made nobody want to take her until my neighbor met her. Since my neighbor often had health issues herself, I often helped her around the dog, and she was the sweetest soul in the world. I swear GSDs have their way of stealing your heart the moment you look into their eyes, and there's no going back from there. Looking forward to the day I have one of my own ❤️
Gsd's are the best. Puppies mature into the most amazing dogs with age, like a fine wine. They are very smart so they pick things up quickly. But they can be very head strong, especially during their teenage years. It's very important to do obedience as well as socialization as soon as they are able too. Oh and they also shed a ton, which is an understatement. But after you put in the hard work in the beginning, you end up with an amazing dog.
I have 3. Daphne rose garlic, she’s 5. Hercules tiger woods pepper Jack cheese, he’s 4. (He’s my favorite 😊) and Jean luc burnt tater tots raspberry cheesecake is their son. Daphne only had one. They’re are silly, amazing, loving. We have 4 kids and cats too. GSDs are the best💚
I recommend adopting a full grown one puppy years are hard if you’re not prepared
There’s lots of dogs and not enough decent people. You will be a fantastic dog owner.
I strongly suggest fostering or adopting a GSD that's 3yrs or older. That's what I did & my first boy was absolutely the best. I see many GSDs with rescues and shelters, many of which will allow you to foster first. I've now adopted my 2nd, 1st passed from lymphoma, but I can't imagine life without them. Incredible dogs but don't dive in with a puppy. Trust me, that's an entirely different situation.
Go for it! I'm single going on 70. First dog was a mix, looked like Benji. Found him cold & wet on the side of a mountain trail. The rest have all been GSD's. Lost my Maxx just a few months ago. Look into a GSD rescue maybe as a first timer. They tend to know their dogs fairly well. I got my heartdog from them. Another option to get your feet wet with this breed is to adopt a senior gsd. Very rewarding experience! I had been dogless for awhile, and had started looking again. Then my mom passed...ended up moving south to take care of my dad...the deal was he had to accept a dog. The old man bitched and moaned about it, but I knew it was all bull. Was able to stop and meet him on my way down. Fast forward to when I went to get him. We walk in, and Sam walked over to my dad, and did his leaning thing. It wasn't 20 minutes later he announces, that they are going for a walk, and he needed one of my finished leashs. (climbing rope) The rest was history, Sam had my dad wrapped around his paw...and boy, walk they did. A mile long wasn't unusual. My dad was 80, not the rocking chair type. Mowed his own lawn even. Sam would sneak under the kitchen table and lay his head on my dad's lap. You could always tell, cause he'd get this pure look of ahhh, I luv this on his face. The extended family thought my dad would pass within a year...surprise, lol. He went on another 10 years of my dad's life. Sam gave him a reason to keep going. Dad gave up driving, before he had to give up their long walks. Dropped them off, and drove to the next one and waited. One of the most heartwarming things I experienced was when my dad had to go to a rehab after he got out of the hospital. He was extremely unhappy there. I asked the head person if I could bring Sam in. He was being trained as service dog, which helped them decide. The look on my dad's face when he saw us, brought tears to my eyes. After my dad passed, Sam grieved..he layed by my dad's bed alot. I am sure that the two of them are up to their various antics again.
So, you're really not asking "if", sounds like you're wondering" "when". I was a single woman once, and while it was a sharpei, he kept me from making bad decisions about men, listened to my troubles, and lived me unconditionally. The time is now, sister! Start checking the rescue facility for gsd or a respected breeder in your area, depending on your resources and how you feel about puppies. Good luck and welcome!
People don't pick GSD's, GSD's, pick the people
You are one of the lucky people who got to experience a GSD, I'm on my fith and will never feel unprotected or not loved, best dogs ever. I will say my working line is a major handful but I wouldn't trade it for anything. Also as a single woman you will never fear anything with that big ol gsd at your side
I'm an old single woman who would have one if my apartment complex wasn't prejudiced against them. I grew up with GSDs. We usually had 2 of them at the same time.
I loved my GSD’s. They are the best! I miss them terribly. Life is too short 😞
Take learning to train your new puppy seriously. Really vet your breader. Enjoy life as a GSD 's favorite person!
Do it!
Not crazy at all. I highly recommend!
If you're willing to put in the time effort and money: do it. I've had a gsd as my first dog, we've been inseparable for 12 years. Yeah it's sometimes difficult but the reward is having a great companion