german shepherds and small dogs

Question
Alright, i was thinking of buying a german shepherd sometime in the near future, however im not sure how it would react with my other dog. I have a 4 year old lhasapoo which is a pretty small dog. If i did buy one, i would definatly buy it as a puppy. I was just wondering how it would socialize with the dog i own already. I would definatly train it well and it shouldnt get bored, since i have 3 kids ages 9-14. Ive had pretty good experiences with these dogs when i was a kid, ivej ust never had a small dog with them. If they are known to be trouble with small dogs, is there any way i could prevent this from happening? thank you

Answer
Hi Gerard.  German Shepherds Socialize well with other dogs, children and small animals, especially as pups. What they learn as pups will carry into adulthood. I have a photo of my friend's german shepherd with a baby lamb drinking the shepherd's milk!

German Shepherds should be taught to like everyone you like and be exposed to strangers and other animals regularly as a pup.

With Every Dog, They need to be socialized properly, walked around crowds, people, children, plays with other dogs, and small animals as a pup.  They should never be allowed to bark at people or animals on walks.  If not exposed to these they tend to get protective of you and afraid or dominant around other people and animals.

As long as you socialize your pup it will be great around other animals but will absolutely accept your dog because he would be raised with him.

Before Purchasing a pup, be sure to buy from a Reputable Breeder and that the dog is registered with your national kennel club.  Check Out the Articles on buying a pup on my Puppies Page and my Help Page.  Also be sure to feed your dog a Premium Large Breed Puppy Food.

When choosing a food for your dog keep in mind that German Shepherds increase their birth weight by approx. 70 times by 15 months of age.  As pups, they tend to double their weight each month.  

Your pup will require a puppy food made especially for the needs of a growing large breed puppy and for the special needs of your German Shepherd who have issues with joints and the digestive system.  There are many large breed puppy foods on the market today.  Find a premium one you can trust to ensure your dog is getting the proper nutrients it requires.

A Video Clip Regarding German Shepherd Special Dietary Needs
http://www.royalcanin.ca/library/files/dog/gs.wmv

It sounds like your busy household would be perfect for your pup.

Sincerely
Gallant German Shepherds
http://www.gallantshepherds.com