German shepherds are noble dogs who are easy to train and who make great protectors of families. And they sure are cute as puppies! If you are about to bring home a GSD (German Sheperd Dog) puppy, then you probably can't wait to start snuggling and playing with it... but there are a few things you need to know beforehand.

GSD puppies tend to bite.

Many GSD puppies are mouthy when they are young. It may not hurt now when they play with your hand in their mouth, but it will in a few months when they're 80 pounds! This is not a behavior to laugh at or take lightly, it is one you need to work to stop from day one. Never let the puppy chew on your hand, no matter how gently it is doing so. Give it a chew toy instead.

GSD puppies are nosy.

These dogs are very curious and they become quite attached to their humans. This is not a bad thing, but it does surprise some new puppy owners. You can expect the puppy to be "all up in your business" and to follow you around. You won't have much alone time for a while!

GSDs shed quite a lot.

You're bringing home a heavy-shedding bread, so get ready for lots of hair on your furniture. These dogs usually shed for the first time during their first spring when they're approaching a year old. They lose their winter coats over a period of about a month but they'll still shed lightly all year long. Say goodbye to wearing black clothes!

GSDs are not a favorite of homeowner's insurance companies.

Make sure you call your homeowner's insurance company and tell them you are bringing home a GSD puppy. Many homeowner's insurance companies won't cover any injuries the dog causes since they're considered a breed that's more likely to bite. However, you may be able to pay an extra fee for a "rider" that covers the dog.

GSDs bark a lot.

These are vocal dogs. They have been bred to be that way because as working dogs, they need to let their handlers know when something is amiss. You can, however, train your puppy to be less vocal by rewarding quiet behavior and assertively saying "no" when he or she barks.

Now you should be well prepared to look into AKC Registered German Shepherd Puppies for Sale. Congratulations on the new addition to your family.