I currently reside with two lab/boxer mixes. I prefer the lab part of the personality, but these little buggars are sweet. I loved my friends Boxer, Gunner, and her new little guy Tyson is a trip, crazy, but adorable.
I love the look of a German Shepherd. They do intimidate me, though. That might be because I tried to make friends with a police dog who wouldn't let me "bribe" him with a hot dog. Yikes.
I don't know any personally. I do know they have a reputation that is undeserved. There are lots of people who should NOT own dogs and lots of people who shouldn't have children. Nuff said.