How to Train? - Page 1

I will be getting my first GSD in a few weeks, and I am confused as to what training methods I should use.  I have looked at Cesar Milan's methods, a book entitled "How to raise a puppy you can live with", and a DVD set on Canine Training Systems called The Foundations of Competitive Obedience Disc Set.  What are your thoughts....please help!

There are SO many different types of training methods out there, and every trainer trains things differently. Its best to read/view as many different methods as you can and see what you think will work for your pup. Each dog is different, your pup might be very food oriented or ball obsessed use what they like and go from there.  Try to see if there are any legit trainers in your area and take some private/puppy classes with them.  Again you are not going to agree with everyone's methods,choose what you feel is the best for you and your new pup.

Good luck and post some pictures when you get him!

Amy

Training methods for what purpose? do you want a dog that is well mannered in the home but you don't care about showing or performance? Do you want to try AKC obedience? Do you want to try schutzhund?  A young puppy of 8 or 9 weeks is probably going to be food oriented - at least all mine have been. It's very easy to teach basic commands at this age. If you want a companion in the home and maybe to try AKC, the Monks of New Skete's the Art of Raising a Puppy is a good book. If you want to try schutzhund you would probably raise a puppy a bit differently. So what do you want to do with the dog?

It absolutely depends on what you are going to be doing with that dog.  Competition dogs are raised much different then house pets, or show dogs etc.  You have to tell us what your expectations are for your new pup?

Lynn

The dog will be a companion and will not be shown (long coat)...I want a well mannered dog that is comfortable with children but will be weary of strangers and would protect my wife if, heaven forbid, something happened.

Any ideas?

Try the Monks' book above. Whether the pup will grow up to be a good protector is anyone's guess at this time. It depends on his/her temperament and drives and much of this is genetic. Your pup will most likely be like her mother, so take a good look at the mother and how she acts. If you want a dog who is good with children, the puppy must be exposed to children who know how to be around dogs. In other words, kids that don't tease the pup and are gentle with her.

I recomend you call around and visit as many local training clubs/facilities as you can find. Sit in on classes, chat with trainers, watch how they work the dogs there. No method will work for you unless you are completely comfortable with it.  There's nothing wrong with some drive development for a pet. You will then just have one more reward your dog will enjoy. You want a method that correctly balances discipline with reward.  If you're near Chicago/Milwaukee you can pm me.

And remember JRS, you should wait until your pup's had all the vaccinations including rabies (usually at 4 months) before taking the pup to any training classes. Most trainers will tell you that, including KC I'm sure. 

Is this the first dog you've owned or trained?

I most definately agree with what KC has said.

It is so much easier to learn and do by going to actual training - lots of excellent practical tips as well that may be more specific/work better for your unique dog.