It is what it is! - Page 1

For all the discussion about show and working lines common sense tells me "It is what it is"! While nothing is absolute there is an element of truth in the beliefs about strenths and weakness of both lines. So if I am looking to buy a new GSD then I use my common sense in doing so. I should realize if I prefer a GSD from showlines then I need to be doing my research and understand what I am buying. If I want a certain level of hardness and nerves then I would be wise to make sure that is what I get. Same way if I want a working line, be aware of the known weakness's and avoid getting one. Some people may be willing to sacifrice conformaion to get a higher level of hardness/drive/nerves. Whatever; just take your time and know what you are getting. If you are not wise "You get what you get". SLOW DOWN AND USE YOUR BRAIN NOT JUST YOUR EMOTIONS WHEN BUYING A NEW GSD. PS;THIS IS JUST MY OPINION..THANKS

I agree 100%!!! One is not better than the other, just different.

Very well said.I also agree 100%.

Everything depends on each individuals preference. Both lines are beautiful if you ask me. Cheers

I like both lines too GSD MAN.

We had a similar discussion on another post that got a little sidetracked today but we were saying the very things. I think much of the reason people really "get screwed" or are so unhappy with their GSD is in fact because they did not understand what they thought they wanted let alone research where it was coming from. A lot of people "impulse" buy also, which is a really bad thing to do. I like both lines as well but for different purposes and I think both are tailored to suit each individuals needs. But regardless of what tickles your fancy, show or working it is critical to know what you're asking for and even more crucial to ask lots of questions from whomever you choose to buy from. Just because someone says "I've been breeding dogs for 20 years" doesn't mean they necessarily are good at it or even know what they are putting out there. With puppies it's a draw regardless of how things look on paper-but it helps in making an "educated guess" of how you'd expect things to turn out. The advantage of an older dog is pretty cut n' dry -It is what it is! Either way one goes it takes thought and planning to find the right match.

I hesitate you respond to this subject because I don't have the time to go back and forth (the snow has melted:). but what the hell. All of a sudden everyone is agreeing that it all depends what you are looking for in a GSD, and that both show and working have their merits and faults. Okay, fine. But where in the heck were you guys on the past threads concerning this subject when all of those "other guys" were jumping in here and stating "showlines are crap", "showlines are what is ruining this breed", "get a REAL dog, not that showline crap", etc. etc. I was fighting those guys almost alone (there were a couple of women that agreed with me then), and I was making the same statements ya'll are making now. Both are nice in their own way. Both are good at what they do. These are the statements I made back then. Not much different from "It is what it is". Just so I don't get surrounded and attacked, I agree with everything everyone says here today :)

Ranger-- We are what we are and it is what it is regardless of what your definition of is is. I'll buy that and we agree again. Being a long time breeder--- more than 20 years for sure--- 54 since my 1st litter and I am still learning.(what's a "clicker"?)I agree on the buyer understanding what he/she wants. The breeder has a definite and important responsibility to place the right puppy. I think sometimes a puppy getting older, a wanter with cash, a breeder allows a puppy, or a dog, to leave knowing it won't work. The biggest loser? The dog, of course, Second? The breeder!! His reputation is on the line and it becomes lose / lose. Morgan

Desert Ranger, GREAT POST! I CONCUR!

DR Absolutely !!!!!! DoRight, I am right with you !!! PJDogs, Bravo Bravo Bravo !!!! You and I agree 100% on breeder responsibility to ask the questions to help potential new buyers "discover" what they Want/Need/Desire. Excellent post Everyone !!