According to Petfood Industry, dogs are the most popular pet worldwide.

It came from a GfK survey in 22 countries, with 33% of respondents owning dogs and with cats coming in second at 23%. Fish (12%), birds (6%), and other types of pets (6% ) all rank significantly lower.

With this trend, German shepherds are the second most popular dog breed in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club.

Despite their popularity, myths about this well-known breed persist.

German shepherd owners are well aware that their dogs are frequently misunderstood due to their size and appearance.

They also realize that the personalities and behaviors of shepherds can vary greatly depending on their lineage. Also, on how they are raised.

The following are some myths about German shepherds:

1. They bite.

German shepherds are a breed that is used for work. They are also devoted and active family pets. They do mouth and puppy bite as puppies, but this is not aggression. It’s their herding heritage at work. When they’re young, this is a simple behavior to correct.

This myth may circulate due to their use in law enforcement, but the majority of dog bites in the United States do not involve German shepherds. Every year, mixed breeds and other breeds account for more dog bites than German shepherd dogs.

2. They are terrifying.

People who are unfamiliar with the breed are frequently intimidated. This could be due in part to their instantly recognizable appearance. Working dogs, such as police and military dogs, are often portrayed on television and in films. These dogs are usually active in their work and appear fierce.

However, these dogs are highly trained and safer to be around than some untrained dogs of other breeds (unless you are a criminal).

3. Only a puppy should you get.

German shepherd puppies are a lot of work, despite their cuteness. They require constant supervision and are known for chewing and puppy biting. Many adult German shepherds are looking for homes, so if you work or have small children, an adult dog may be the best fit.

When introducing an adult dog into a home with children or other animals, greater care must be taken. This is to ensure that the right dog is chosen. That it has been tested around children and cats and that the dog’s background is understood.

4. Female German shepherds do not have a dominant personality.

There are differences between male and female German shepherds. But these are due to their lineage and personality rather than their gender. There are dominant female German shepherds too. Just as there are happy-go-lucky, mellow male German shepherds.

When having a German shepherd into your home, paying attention to personality and breeding is just as important as selecting the dog’s sex.

5. They don’t like children.

German shepherds, as active, larger-sized dogs, may be intimidating to a small child or their parents. Like all dogs, they should be socialized with children as part of their training. Most German shepherds, on the other hand, adore kids and make excellent family pets. Because they have so much energy, they can make awesome playmates for children.

Youngsters should be involved in their training from an early age so that they learn how to treat the dog and teach the dog to respect them.

6. All German shepherds have hip dysplasia.

German shepherds, like all breeds, are prone to certain health issues, such as hip or elbow dysplasia. However, it does not affect the majority of dogs. If this is a real issue, there is genetic testing for certain health problems to rule it out.

Dog health insurance is also available to assist with the payment of any bills incurred to hip dysplasia or any other health issue that may arise.

7. You can’t train an adult dog.

There is a distinction to be made between a damaged, aggressive, or neurotic dog. Those who need professional assistance and a dog who requires social skills and training. Mentally healthy grown dogs, like puppies, can be trained and enjoy bonding time with their new owners.

German shepherds are pretty intelligent and thrive on mental challenges. So training an older dog or a rescue can easily become enjoyable for both the dog and the owner.

8. They are not friendly with other dogs.

German shepherds are fiercely loyal to their families. They can also be envious. Some dogs prefer to be only petted and live out their days without the company of another dog.

Most German shepherds, on the other hand, enjoy the company of other dogs of all breeds and sizes. German shepherds, like all dogs, should be socialized with other dogs and introduced to them while leashed and in a neutral location.

9. They are so intelligent that they do not need training.

German shepherds are extremely smart and, as a result, require extensive training. Untrained shepherds will make their own decisions and may cause mischief. They have the potential to become dominant as well.

It is not by chance that a dog becomes self-assured and socialized.

It is the result of extensive training, socialization, exercise, and playtime.

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Sources: German Shepherd Shop, Petfood Industry, American Kennel Club