It may have been true in the days of von Stephanitz, but GSDs are so screwed up these days it's hard to find one that is worth breeding.
I settled on the Dutch Shephred. Vastly fewer health problems compared to the GSD because it is NOT a pure-bred dog and they didn't mess with the hips. They are bred for temperament and working ability. They're big enough to keep a big cat off me while I'm working and fearless enough to run off a bear or pig without getting hurt. They're smart enough to hold the perimeter and stay to the high ground, although in the woods they are hard to see. The short haired variety (shown) has hair short enough to find a tick and doesn't mat, but the dog can take a 20°F without a problem. They're not afraid of a chainsaw, gunfire, pain, or a falling tree. My bitch defends her property and family tirelessy and never leaves her perimeter (the males need watching unless they are with you). Fast, agile, and a good nose. A KNPV (Royal Dutch Police Force) PH-1 Dutch Shep (or Malinois) is an awesome working dog and a KNPV trial should be seen to be appreciated, but one should NOT get ANY working dog without a job for the dog to do (especially males). Not terribly social unless raised as such. VERY family oriented (high pack drive). The dogs shown are about 80-100 lbs and 24" at the shoulder, bitches are 60-80 lbs. A great replacement for a GSD, but as you can see, I'm prejudiced. :)
