Training your Dog is all Important
German Shepherds are such a smart breed that if you don't train them, they will train you! We have found that the dogs people get rid of are the dogs that do not behave. We hope these tips will help you and your dog stay best
friends throughout life.  

Socialize Your Puppy
In an article written by D. Caroline Coile PH.D. published in Dog World's June 2007 magazine, she writes "Dogs raised without contact with the outside world until 10 months of age became hyperactive, with six times the activity of normally
raised dogs, when placed in a normal environment. They learned slowly and forgot easily compared to the normally raised dogs."
This emphasizes the Importance of socializing your dog. Make a point to introduce your dog to any visitors, even if they come by
frequently. We also suggest taking your dog with you any time you can. Taking a trip to your local pet store, park, or even sitting
outside a local store or gas station are great ways to socialize your dog.

Getting enough exercise
Dogs will respond to training sessions better if their energy level is at a mid way point. If they have been shut up all day a good run or long walk is a good idea before training class.
Getting lots of exercise will go a long way toward avoiding destructive behavior.

Telling your puppy no!
Mom knows best. By watching our bitches, We've learned how they tell their puppies "NO". Mom will grab the puppy over the back of the neck and push down. She never hurts the youngster even though they might act like they are being killed. Mom
squeezes the back of the neck and pushes down. The first warning from mom is short and gentle and most puppies get the message
right away.
We are of the opinion this is an instinctive instruction, and have yet to meet a puppy that didn't "get it".
To imitate this:
Place your hand over the back of the puppies neck gently squeeze and gently push down. This works best if
you catch your pet in the "act" so they know why you are telling them no. Never use any more pressure than
is needed to get their attention.

Clipping nails
To keep nail trimming from becoming a dreaded event by you and your dog. Go through the actions of clipping nails with out actually clipping. Praise your dog after your pet allows you to hold their paws and flick their nails. When actually clipping
the nails don't squeeze their paws. If your dog seems afraid of the clippers try petting them with the clippers. We use a Dremel tool
with a small sanding drum as an alternative to standard clippers.

Be your Dogs Pack Leader
When going for a walk make your dog sit at the door. When you go to open the door if the dog starts to misbehave stop wait for the dog to behave and don't open the door until the dog settles down. You should always go through the door first this
say to your dog you are in charge, you are the Pack Leader. This might take some time at first, but as long as you are consistent your
dog will soon understand that the quickest way to start the walk is to obey.   

Always go out the door before your dog when going for a walk.
This tells your dog you are in charge.
Training Tips
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