What “Pick of the Litter” Really Means
The phrase pick of the litter usually means “first choice” among the puppies. People with some experience know this, but first pick is not automatically the best puppy for you. The best choice is the puppy whose temperament and drives align with your lifestyle and purpose.
At Gunbil German Shepherds, we understand that not every dog is right for every family—and not every family is right for every dog. The smartest decision is to choose the puppy that complements your life and your family’s rhythm.
Choose for Purpose & Lifestyle
Dogs are pack animals. Before you fall in love with a “look,” think about the role your dog will have at home. If you’re not planning to show or breed, your chances of finding the perfect fit are often higher—because the focus is on family compatibility, not show points.
Family Companion
The German Shepherd makes a wonderful family pet—affectionate, loyal, and protective by nature. A great companion pup is typically confident yet easygoing, with a sound, stable temperament (not an alpha personality). Hallmarks include:
- Medium Play Drive: enjoys engagement and training without being demanding.
- Medium Prey Drive: responsive and focused, without fixation on moving objects.
- Medium Rank Drive: willing to follow clear leadership; not pushy.
- Medium–High Pack Drive: people-oriented, wants to be with the family.
- Natural Protection: calmly alert and appropriately discerning.
- Lower Activity Drive: steady energy that adapts to daily family life.
Show Prospect
A show-line prospect should meet conformation standards and demonstrate balanced temperament and willingness to work. FCI-recognized show lines tend to be more angulated and richly pigmented (often black and red) with a fluid trot and typically a softer overall temperament than many working lines.
Planning to show? Tell us early. We’ll help select the right drives and structure for the ring—and discuss timing, handling, and development to set you up for success.
Breeding Quality
A breeding prospect should bring excellent health, structure, and temperament to the program—supported by a strong pedigree. Preferred indicators include titled and ranked parents, consistent pigment, and solid breed value (SV Zuchtwert) along with sound hips/elbows and stable character.
Tip: Don’t overlook grandparents—multi-generation quality often predicts long-term consistency.
Quick Notes on Drives (Plain English)
- Play Drive: desire to engage with people and dogs—great for training motivation.
- Prey Drive: focus on moving targets; useful when channeled, overwhelming if unchecked.
- Rank Drive: desire to lead; high rank can challenge handlers without firm, fair guidance.
- Pack Drive: social desire to stay close to family or handler; bonds strongly.
- Protection Drive: willingness to defend when a threat is perceived; rarer than assumed.
- Activity Drive: how much the dog needs to “be doing something”—adds energy to all drives.
Need Help Matching a Puppy?
Tell us about your daily routine and goals. We’ll recommend a puppy whose temperament, drives, and structure align with your expectations—so your “pick” feels perfect for years to come.
See Upcoming Litters Get Match Guidance
Or call (719) 220-2222