[NAGDU] Labs and German Shepards

[Tracy Carcione]

I've had 6 labs and 1 shepherd.  The shepherd couldn't take my stressful lifestyle at the time, and had to retire early.  I think of him as my Woody Allen dog, smart, but anxious.  So that colors my perceptions.  But I have a friend who's had all shepherds, and they do well.  So, with that said ...

I think, very broadly speaking, shepherds are more driven.  They really want to get out there and work, the more the better.  My labs also really enjoy their work, but, if for some reason I don't have anywhere to go today, they're happy to hang around the house for a day.
Shepherds tend to talk more.  Not bark or growl, just make sheppie noises.  
The shepherds I've known seem prone to serious health issues, particularly digestion issues.  They can be managed, once the right food is found, but finding it can be a big job.
My shepherd had a smooth, long-legged gait.  He went fast without thinking about it.  My labs have had more of a trot, but they've also been shorter than my sheppie.  Many people say a lab gait is bouncy or rolling. I don't notice that myself, but I've had a lot of labs, so maybe I'm just used to it.
Tracy
 

-----Original Message-----
From: NAGDU [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Sean Moore via NAGDU
Sent: Friday, April 14, 2017 9:16 AM
To: National Association of Guide Dog Users NAGDU Mailing List
Cc: Sean Moore
Subject: [NAGDU] Labs and German Shepards

Was  wondering  if  someone  could  describe  the  working  difference  between  a lab  and  GSD for me.

Such  as  personality, feel  of the  pull  in  harness, etc.

Reason  I’m asking  my  boyfriend Joseph  is  strongly  thinking  about  trying a  GSD when  his  Moose retires, I am  also.

Maybe  from    Gallant Hearts . Since  we  had a  really  good  informational  talk  with  the  executive director.

Thanks,
Yours,

Sean Moore & Southeastern Guide Dog: Rob 

Email: 

seanmoore87 at gmail.com 

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