What to know before you first GS - Page 2

That they can't sit still even for a second (working line) every time I think I get her tired she goes grab some water and acts like we didn't work out at all and that’s after an hour of retrieve (her running at full steam). We went camping after three days of 10 people throwing her a ball finally got tired (btw lasted only 2 days lol) hahahaha. Socialization at early age is critical (kids, other dogs, other people).

What to know.......

1. That the German Shepherd is not a dog that you take as a pup and throw him/her out in the backyard, and then wonder why it is aggressive, and afraid of people. It needs love, guidance, and training to be a good representative of the breed.

2. It needs ALOT OF BRUSHING!! If you do not like hair, this is not the breed for you.

3. You do not make money off of breeding.If you think that "Hey.. when this pup is old enough, I will breed it to Joe Shmoe's dog in the neighborhood and MAKE MONEY, then this is not the dog for you.Too many puppy mills and and back yard breeders.

4.The German Sherd need health care for his lifetime. If you cannot afford to take care of a dog, and and checkups to the Vet, then you should not own a dog.

This is just my view.

Dawn

OMG........ How embarrasing!!!!

I was in such a hurry to post That what Ihate other people doing, by spelling GERMAN SHEPHERD a GERMAN SHERD.....I am kicking myself in the butt right now!!! 

Sorry for the typo, and I hope this gives you all a good laugh if your day is going bad!!!

Dawn

 I'm not a breeder nor do I work my dogs - in case you wish to consider the source:))  The GSD's I've owned have all been companion dogs and great natural protectors.  That said here's my opinion. I find that GSD's need a clear leader, if you are not able to maintain that "air" then the GSD will happily step into the role. You don't need to be harsh, though some folks handle their dogs that way and GSD for the most part seem to respond fine, but you need to be clear and not wishy washy or a GSD will walk all over you.  I find they seem to read "minds" (and emotions) so approaching them with calm confidence will make all the difference. Once they understand who is "driving the bus" they are all too happy to please but they will verify on a daily if not hourly basis just who is calling the shots:)) so calm confidence should become a state of mind.

IMO there is no better dog in the world then a well educated GSD. They are versatile, willing, and able, but don't skimp on foundation training, GSD's are strong headed and need to be taught what is expected of them in human "pack". I think the Monks of New Skete is a good resource as well as Ian Dunbar especially for early training because his method can really help build/retain confidence, also SATS http://www.synalia.com/ to develop a great relationship. smooth out any temperament issues and build a first rate vocabulary.  It's all about spending time to develop an unbreakable bond, which GSD's thrive on.  Once you have this your GSD will be 100% reliable on and off leash. 

Final opinion:) GSD's are not for the faint of heart, so if you don't have the time to bond with him/her this breed is not for you.  They need to be active but it can either be physically active or mental active - i.e. challenge them physically with advanced training like protection or challenge them metal by developing skills that can help you in your daily life. But if you do neither expect the possibility you might have a lot of property damage, there are few breeds that are more destructive then a bored GSD:))

my best,

Susan

the Monks of New Skete

its a good starting point, easy read and gives a lot if insight on pottential issues.

my apologies for snapping

keep researching the breed as you have been.

perhaps speak to a rescue and see if you can go down and help out.

they do shed a lot but the joy that they bring is well worth a bit of hoovering.

if you decide to get one choose a good breeder that tests for HD ED and Hemophilia (for the stud)

talk to the breeder and get to know them well, ask for references. and spot check them,(turn up out of the blue for a cuppa)

learn about the breed related health conditions. 

and most importantly never get a pup because you feel sorry for it. or because it is cheap. 

diet is very important so research this topic thoroughly.

GSD don't like being bored so if you work full time or lead a busy lifestyle and the dog will be left alone don't get one.

training is sooooo important get a good trainer or visit a club don't try to do this all on your own, small mistakes urn into huge problems later so paying for training is not a waste of money.

GSDs as a general rule like firm and fair owners so remember that everyone in the house has to be consistent ALL the time

and feel free to ask anything and ignore the grumpy buggers (like me..lol)

tracie

www.freewebs.com/incubusgsds

CTINC...

You posted before......

http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/gsd/bulletins_read/213174.html

DO NOT bring in another male, if the dog you already have is not trained. Where did you buy your BEST FRIEND from? Contact the breeder where you bought the dog from, and maybe he/she can help you with training, and/or ALOT of advice too!

Sorry folks another typo...

The Thread Topic was Help With New German Shepherd.

http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/gsd/bulletins_read/213005.html

Dawn