1. Home & Garden

Nicholas, My Rescue GSD

Share Your Story: Living with a German Shepherd Dog

From Carol

Dog's Name & Age:

Nicholas

In a Word, My German Shepherd Is…

Loyal

Best Characteristics of the Breed

Intelligent, loyal, intuitive, obedient

Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed

Protectiveness, intelligence

When, Where and How I Got My German Shepherd

RESCUE, RESCUE, RESCUE - all my dogs have been rescued and each one was simply misunderstood or purchased on an impulse by the previous owners. I now adopt only older GSDs others seems to pass over rather than realizing how precious they are, as they feel they will lose them too soon.

I will be sad when I lose each one whether it be tomorrow or years from now and feel so good knowing I made a difference to that particular dog and made his/her senior years a joy. Here's where the difference may be - I adopt a dog, not for myself, but for the dog.

I'd Describe My Dog As…

A true companion who provides me with love, laughter and pride. He was a tough nut to crack when he was younger, but well worth the work with training. He is phenomenal example of the breed that I can take anywhere and always stands out in a crowd.

Advice

Socialization, leadership, structure, consistency and patience.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.