Are German Shepherds good with kids?
Friday, July 12, 2024. This is written in loving memory of Greta.
German Shepherds are often lauded for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility.
However, when considering them as family pets, especially in households with children, it is helpful to examine various factors from the perspective of a marriage and family therapist because a German Shepherd dog functions more as a member of the family than as a passive house pet.
Caveat: I don’t claim any particular dog wisdom other than that I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who is a fan of the breed.
The Nature of German Shepherds with Children
German Shepherds are known for their protective instincts, which can make them excellent guardians for children. Their loyalty and strong bonding tendencies often form deep attachments with family members, including kids.
According to Coren (2019), these dogs are among the most intelligent breeds, capable of learning and adapting to family dynamics quickly.
However, their protective nature can also lead to challenges. Without proper socialization, a German Shepherd might become overly protective or even aggressive, perceiving strangers, including children's friends, as threats. It's essential to ensure that these dogs are socialized from a young age to differentiate between normal social interactions and real threats.
Responsibilities of Training a German Shepherd
Training a German Shepherd is a significant responsibility that involves time, consistency, and understanding. These dogs thrive on mental stimulation and physical activity.
A well-trained German Shepherd is not only a joy to have but also safer and more reliable around children. Training should start early, focusing on obedience, socialization, and positive reinforcement techniques.
Key training tips:
Early Socialization: Introduce the puppy to a variety of people, places, sounds, and experiences.
Obedience Training: Teach basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Consistency is crucial.
Exercise Needs: Provide ample physical and mental stimulation through regular exercise and interactive toys.
Positive Reinforcement: Use rewards-based training to encourage desirable behaviors.
Rewards of training a German Shepherd Dog
The rewards of training a German Shepherd extend beyond the immediate family dynamics. Well-trained German Shepherds are typically more confident, less anxious, and better behaved. This can lead to a harmonious household where the dog is an integral part of family activities.
Benefits Include:
Enhanced Bonding: Training sessions strengthen the bond between the dog and family members, especially children.
Safety: A trained German Shepherd is less likely to engage in harmful behaviors, ensuring a safer environment for kids.
Emotional Support: These dogs can offer significant emotional support to children, providing companionship and a sense of security.
German Shepherd dogs as family members
Incorporating a German Shepherd into the family can enrich the household in many ways.
These dogs often develop a strong sense of belonging and actively participate in family activities.
They can be excellent companions for children, helping to teach responsibility, empathy, and the value of unconditional love.
Family Dynamics:
Active Participation: German Shepherds enjoy being part of family activities, whether it's playing in the yard, going for walks, or simply lounging around the house.
Teaching Responsibility: Caring for a dog helps children learn about responsibility and commitment. Daily tasks such as feeding, grooming, and exercising the dog can be shared among family members.
Building Empathy: Interacting with a pet can help children develop empathy and emotional intelligence, understanding the needs and feelings of another living being.
Academic Insights
Research supports the idea that dogs, including German Shepherds, can positively impact children's development.
Studies indicate that children who grow up with pets tend to have higher self-esteem, better social skills, and reduced stress levels (Purewal et al., 2017).
However, the success of integrating a German Shepherd into a family with children largely depends on proper training, socialization, and the family's commitment to the dog's needs. Your mileage may vary.
Resources on German Shepherd Dogs
Books:
"The German Shepherd Handbook" by Linda Whitwam
"Training Your German Shepherd Dog" by Brandy Eggeman and Jacqueline O'Neil
Websites:
American Kennel Club (www.akc.org)
German Shepherd Dog Club of America (www.gsdca.org)
Organizations:
German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions (www.gsdrescue.org)
Association of Professional Dog Trainers (www.apdt.com)
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
REFERENCES:
Coren, S. (2019). The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of Our Canine Companions. Free Press.
Purewal, R., Christley, R., Kordas, K., Joinson, C., Meints, K., Gee, N., & Westgarth, C. (2017). Companion animals and child/adolescent development: A systematic review of the evidence. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(3), 234. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14030234
