Thanks so much for the replies! I knew you all would be helpful.
James, I hope this does help answer some of your questions too. So, when do you get your lab puppy? Our GSD was just born 2 days ago. We are going to see the litter in a few weeks and then, of course, bring one home at the 8 week mark. We paid for 1st pick. We've been researching what to look for in GSD puppies. Hopefully, that'll pay off when we get there. The breeder is wonderful and we've spoken to him multiple times already.
Highway Jack, Max is absolutely gorgeous! I hear ya bout people keeping their pets on leashes. I have the issue in my neigbhorhood with a German Shepard actually. I was running by one day and she actually came after me... growling and nipping at my hip area. Talk about scared! The first time she did it I didn't say anything to the owners. The 2nd time I had to go up to their door. I waited awhile when I knew the dog was back inside. Can you believe I actually still want a GSD? Ha. I know it's not the dog's fault... it's owner.
KodiackJack, so you must be a GSD pro too! We have already called and made arrangements for him to go to obedience school (a puppy one to start). This particular place also has agility training, if we decide to do that after a few obedience classes. We plan on getting him used to people (hubby will take him to work several times a week) and we will put him in our Doggy Daycare and go to our local dog park frequently. Is your avatar one of them when they were pups? Your DEATH WISH comment cracked me up. You have two well adjusted and well trained GSDs for them to just sit there and chill while the little dog went nuts around them. Ha Ha.
Thanks again everyone for all the good things to know about large breeds and restrictive breeds. Also, your pet peeves and knowledge that we will be taking LOTS of walks.