German Shepherd dogs are one of the most intelligent breeds of dog. They are a solid, sturdy and very muscular dog. Their strength and agility, combined with their superior mental capacity, allow them to be trained in many special areas of expertise.

German Shepherds have been the dog of choice for police and military operatives around the globe for many years. They have been trained and used for sniffing out bombs and explosives with their very acute sense of smell. They have been used for sniffing out illegal drugs and other contraband from places it shouldn't be. German Shepherds have saved countless lives of people in countless situations in just about every region of the world.

The German Shepherd is the dog most used and trained as a "Service Dog" that serve as a set of eyes for blind people. They have given otherwise home bound persons with epilepsy or severe diabetic disorders, a renewed sense of independence, by being able to sense when their master is about to have a seizure. They can alert the owner in advance, allowing enough time for preventative measures, or medication that will halt the seizure, to be administered. Lately they have been trained to be companions to autistic children, as to help with their development and confidence. These alliances have had the results characterized as nothing short of a miracle.

If you are planning on getting a dog, especially if you are handicapped (in any number of ways), a German Shepherd would be an excellent choice. Just remember that training must start from the point they are taken away from the mother at birth. Make sure you choose the breeder from where you get the dog wisely and avoid a "Puppy Mill" at all costs.

Service dogs are specially bred, and must be hand picked from a group of dogs that show superior intelligence. After being carefully chosen, the pup then moves on to a year or so of rigorous training, before being matched up with a new, compatible handicapped owner. There are so many different things that a German Shepherd can be trained to do, that if you were to get a puppy, you would probably be confused on where to start. Make sure that you get a good, comprehensive and in depth book, specializing in German Shepherds, to be your guide.