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9 Rib-Tickling Things German Shepherds Are Scared Of

9 Rib-Tickling Things German Shepherds Are Scared Of

Sure, GSDs are considered to be the bravest dogs on the face of the Earth. But, did you know that they have their own quirky fears? 

That’s right! With these medium-sized boys and girls, the word “watchdogs” might just be overemphasized, but not in a bad way.

If you’re a proud German Shepherd owner or you are intending to become one, here’s the list of 9 hilarious things you can expect your medium-sized canines to be afraid of, or at least be suspicious about. 

Let’s take a look!

1. Dog Toys

man picking a dog toy in store
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I’m quite confident that your breeder has already told you to be all about positive reinforcement when it comes to your GSD. And, you already shopped for your dog’s first interactive toys. Am I right?

Well, I don’t mean to spoil your future doggo endeavors or break your illusions, but there might be a slight possibility that your GSD will find his interactive dog toys way too intimidating. Or, at least annoying!

If you have recently walked into a room and seen your GSD fighting with his snuggle puppy or a ball – don’t worry. They’re just having a teeny-tiny argument!

2. Air Conditioners

air conditioner
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Sure, Poodles and Malteses are all about hair drying and fashioning themselves. But, what about GSDs? 

Let me be totally honest with you – your German boy is highly likely to freak out even next to a simple air conditioner. These pooches are simply not into any unnatural air flow or movement. Quite the contrary – they like keeping things simple! 

So, if you’re coping with your dog acting weird all of a sudden – keep your German Shepherd away from the air conditioner! Otherwise, your doggo might fight off the coolness!

3. Vacuum Cleaners

woman using vacuum cleaner
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Even the best family dogs like GSDs sometimes have their own private battle with a vacuum cleaner. 

Is it their high-pitched sound that makes them go crazy? Or, their super-scary, unleashed hose? Who could really say?

If you feel like vacuuming – better take your GSD away. Long hoses and things that suck even the bravest doggos up are not really their thing!

4. The Dark

german shepherd at night
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Come on, hooman! Like you love dark spaces!

“No, thank you! I would rather stay under my pillow!” is probably something you would hear from your black-and-cream friend. 

Sure, both male and female GSDs will go chase after enemies and predators when your life’s on the line, but do they really need to go in a dark house first?

I didn’t think so!

5. Small Kids

german shepherd with baby
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Who are these small creatures, and what are their intentions? And, after all… why do they remind me of my owner?

Yep, your smallest, demanding family members may just be too much for this fearless dog breed. They’re totally cool about resolving the most complex doggo tasks in the world, but when it comes to babies – boy, better not touch!

After all, there might be a destruction button in those chubby little arms!

6. Cats

german shepherd looking at cat
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Yes, most days, they are good boys that get along with cats just fine! But, what the heck does that purring mean? 

Are they growling? Are they mad? How long until they attack me? And, why are they so grumpy? 

These are all questions of the utmost importance that need to be evaluated. Otherwise, they will fearlessly walk away and find a comfortable spot under the bed. They’re not afraid. They’re just so comfortable that they can’t go out! 

7. Water

two german shepherds in nature by lake
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Listen, hooman! If you want a dog that swims and enjoys it get a Retriever. And, leave me right where the land of sand, soil, and concrete begins.

I mean… is there a doggo manual on how to swim? Sure, they can do it, but why bother? After all – they’re champions of hunting criminals and bad boys, not sharks and dolphins!

8. Doorbells

a doorbell
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Why would you need any sort of security system or a doorbell when you have a German Shepherd? They will spend countless hours at the window waiting for a guest… just don’t set up that high-pitched, noisy thing up there!

To be very clear – a doorbell ringing distracts them from being impeccable watchdogs. Why have two announcements when someone’s coming when you can just have one?

If, however, you must do it – can you at least provide a snooze button that reacts to a tilting head? 

9. Vets

woman helping german shepherd at vet
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They’re not exactly scared of vets. They just don’t like having their paws, eyes, ears, tongue, body, and tail unnecessarily examined. 

They don’t even like those unnecessary rides to the vet or the very idea of getting ready for the vet. Okay… they’re a little scared!

There’s a tiny problem, though! Even though they are not considered to be displaying the so-called predatory aggression, they might act undesirable in these kinds of situations. 

Consider this to be on the level of a small kid protesting the first visit to the dentist!