Is there a way to teach your GSD to STACK, properly ? and what's the best age to teach that? - Page 1

I would like to have some insight into this please? I want to show my dogs in the future, they are 6 months of age right now.. They do stack naturally, but does not stay like that for long.. How to achieve perfect stacking training for show purposes, am ready to devote as much time as it needs..  thanks for the replies :) 

Obedience is the key to having a successful stack. It wouldn't hurt to exercise the dog prior. You do not want to have an overly excited dog during stacking time. I would first start by properly setting the front feet and then work yourself to the back. Some dogs may feel very uncomfortable with the stacking position, and will move back into a natural pose. keep adjusting until your dog no longer moves. I would suggest telling the dog to stay after hes been stacked. Start giving him treats for each time he stays still. Treat this as if you're training for the long down.

For new dogs (you can start at any age... I've seen puppies at 8 weeks old being stacked) this might be impossible, and will often frustrate the dog. When the dog becomes too frustrated stop and take a break. If you become frustrated, stop immediately and take a break. You want the dog to feel comfortable, not to be frighten where his ears are sagging low. This makes a piss poor photo.

this is Zambi's stack photo http://cdn.pedigreedatabase.com/pictures/442063.jpg
While the stack isn't exactly perfect... It shows just how happy and confident she appearance. Practice makes better.

If you can find a local all breed training club then the chances are you will find someone that knows showing there. Obedience is the key to any well trained dog. Even a basic obedience class will offer useful suggestions. And i for one do not believe in the old wives tale that you can't teach a show dog to "Sit" they are not dumb and can easily learn the difference between "Sit" and "Stand, Stack, Hold, Pose" what ever word you want to use. Start by using the type of show collar and lead you will be using at the actual show. So they will know this collar and lead means we are showing. Bait the puppies into a standing pose.  Once they can hold that pose for a few second while nibbling on a treat, only then start messing with their feet. Make little adjustments, Reward! And make sure that you get them use to having people touch their heads, look in their mouths open the mouth for people, let people open the mouth and look at teeth. Have friendly people run their hands over their bodies. If you have males touch their testicals. Handle them a hell of a lot. Because no judge like to try and mess with a spooky/freaky/ fearful big or even little dog. Keep sessions short and fun. Basic Obedience is a great place to start because you can ask a bunch of people to touch your dog, plus they get use to being in a ring with other dogs that they have to ignore.
Have fun and good luck.
Fry

When they are young (8-12weeks) they can learn. I use the command " stand"   I don't expect the little ones to hold it for very long.  30 seconds is plenty to begin with   The position when they are young is not strategic for practice. It's mostly learning to be still and be handled.  That will make it much easier for the handler at the show to place the feet correctly. As they get older you can add into the command the proper foot placement. 

WOW,. valuable insights from you all :) @Brittany @Dragonfry @djc thanks to you all :) I will for sure work up following your suggestions.