Tips on German Shepards?

[Mr.Maduro]

I had one that was 135lbs, almost stood 6' on his hind legs and lived to about 9 1/2. We took him to obedience training and he was the best dog we ever had. Intimidating to look at, but a big mush at heart. They are very protective. Whenever I hugged my mother, Pal's jaw would be clamped around my arm. Not hard, but just enough to let me know....be careful, that's the lady who feeds me!

Pure-breeds are notorious for having hip problems as the get older. My parents moved from the 2nd floor to the first just for the dog. (No more stairs)

Pal's hips weren't too bad, there is some arthritis type pills you can get for them. Cancer on the other hand....