Hard time deciding between a GSD & a Lab?

[LexiGirl]

My fiance and I have been doing tons of research on both breeds and having a really difficult time deciding which will be the best for us. I don't think we could really go wrong with either, but here is a little background:

We are very active (running, hiking, camping, etc), live in the suburbs with a medium-sized fenced yard and our house backs up to a park (unlimited play space for the dog). I spend the majority of nights alone due to my fiance's work schedule, so we like the idea of a dog having protective instincts. We love that GSD's are so smart and easy to train (when given the proper amount of time, stimulation, and socialization), but we are also very social people and would prefer a dog that is friendly to people, and not indifferent. Labs are so bubbly and lovable they just make you feel good. They are also very smart, but I have known some labs that are so cool/relaxed, while others can be a complete spaz. Also don't like their habit of eating/chewing on everything. Both shed, so what are you going to do about that. Lastly, the pup have to be good with kids (no brainer).

I would love to hear your opinions. Like I said, I don't think we can go wrong, but it is a huge personal and financial commitment, so we just want to feel confident with our decision. Thanks!

[uknowitstrue]

I think a lab would be better. They aren't really good guard dogs since they love everyone, but the fact that they're sorta big and bulky would make potential creepers back off. The dog doesn't have to necessarily growl to scare people... Just it's presence is enough to stop predators or whatever. I feel totally safe walking at night with my standard poodle. He's certainly not threatening looking, but I think if someone wanted to mess with me, they'd rather pick on someone without a dog in the first place.
Also, I might be totally wrong, but I'd be more worried a GSD would be overprotective of a baby. Not that he'd hurt the baby, but that he might get upset at friends who get too close

[Tara]

I had a GSD for 11 years. He was very friendly to people in his own home. You absolutely have to choose your breeder carefully with GSDs. You live by a park, so if there's lots of other dogs there a Lab would love it. GSDs at dog parks are usually off chasing frisbees by themselves. Both dogs are going to require lots of exercise, but GSDs need mental stimulation too. Whichever you decide, make sure your puppy is temperament tested by the breeder so you know if you are getting an easy going dog or a complete spaz. A reputable breeder realizes the importance of temperament testing, especially with GSDs, so if a breeder doesn't know what it is, that's not a good sign.

[Saddle Sore]

If it is your first dog I would go with a Lab. GSD's are fantastic too but can in some cases be too much dog for a first time owner. There is a reason they are one of the preferred dogs of military and police forces around the world, it is that very reason that they can be too much to handle for many families.
A Lab will still require plenty of training and socialisation but in general would be a little more forgiving of any training errors a new owner may make. Also a black lab or any lab for that matter can be quite a deterrent for any intruders.
If you still would like a GSD I would suggest an adult dog that has already been well socialised or employ a trainer to make sure you end up with the ideal family dog you hope to have.

EDIT: I 100% agree with the previous poster about the breeders and temperament testing. I would also advise that you seek out breeders of show dogs rather than working dogs in both cases as working dogs and show dogs are almost like a different breed entirely.

[Emily]

Personally, I think the lab would be a better choice for you. While I understand you would like a dog with protective instincts, those same protective instincts can be dangerous. I personally know three different people who have been bitten by GSDs, but I've also known GSDs that were fine with people. If you do go for a GSD, be VERY careful with the breeder so you know the mother and father aren't aggressive. Also, most importantly, spend A LOT of time socializing and training the puppy when he is young. Have lots of interaction with strangers(ESPECIALLY children), other dogs, and even cats.

But, even with doing those things, I think a lab would be better. Labs are really the type of dog that want to be doing what you're doing. So if you're out hiking, they want to be hiking. If you're sitting on the couch watching TV, they want to be too. A common misconception is that because a dog is friendly with strangers, they won't be good protectors. This isn't true. A lab will be friendly with strangers as long as their owner isn't being threatened. If most dogs feel their master is being threatened, they'll do something about it. Labs are also very smart and EXTREMELY trainable because of their willingness to please. As far as the spaz thing, going to pick out the puppy in person can help with that. A laid back puppy will usually be a fairly laid back adult. They can also easily be taught not to chew things they're not supposed to, as long as you begin training them as puppies and provide things that they CAN chew (toys, boys, etc). Labs are also known as one of the most kid-friendly breeds.