GSD's make wonderful family pets and are to be strongly recommended, but like any of the many dog breeds you could choose from there are certain common sense factors to be mindful of. I would always sound a cautionary note with any breed of dog, where young children are concerned.

The GSD is generally very good-natured, and in most cases is completely safe with youngsters. I don't want to give the impression that the GSD is unsuitable for families with kids. This is not the case at all. Most are fine and make great pets for all the family to enjoy.

However, never take it for granted that your child/children or other people's children are completely safe with any breed of dog. Children can, and often do the unpredictable. They should never be allowed to lunge, scream or yell at the dog. Very young crawling children must never be left unaccompanied with any dog. Do not allow a child to put its face close to a dog's face. Something about the height of small children can trigger aggression in some dogs of many breeds.

Children also should never be allowed to tease a dog, pull its coat, or ignore a warning growl. Install into them from the earliest age the importance of asking permission before touching a dog with whom they are not familiar.