I have had GSD's all my life, literally. They are incredibly gentle with children and babies. Also they are off the charts smartest than all other dogs with the exception go boarder collies. They are easy to train because they want to please you, and they will literally die before they let anything happen to someone in their family. I will check if the breeder in Cali that I got my newest pup from is going to have any litters coming up if you want. These are imports from Austria champion lines, but they are still getting the papers worked out (Transferred from Austria to AKC) so you could get a pup in your price range. Do not get one with ANY American Lines blood!! Those are the GSD'S with hip, elbow, and other problems. The Germans, Austrians, and Czechs breed for strength, intelligence, and drive.