German Shepherd Puppy Training Tips
How can i train my german sheppard puppy?
My german shepherd puppy is about 4 months old. Does anyone know how i can make him a little more aggressive towards people he doesnt know. I used to have another dog that was too nice and while that is a good thing, i dont want a real mean dog, but any stranger on the street could walk up to him and pat him on the head. He was not aggressive at all. My puppy is around a few people all the time and soon i am moving him into my new house. I hope that he has not been made too friendly.I am hoping that by being only around me that he will become hesitant about being too friendly towards strangers. I live alone and need a good protecter that will not allow anyone to get too close to the house. I want him to be an aggressive guard dog that is loyal only to me. Any tips?
Their is a difference between aggression and protection. My suggestion is to get into touch with a local Schutzhund club and ask their director of reputable trainers in your area that work with private clients and protection work.
Protection work is a very sensitive issue– people often think that dogs that have been trained to “protect” are aggressive. A well trained protection dog is also a trustworthy family companion. Research the sport of Schutzhund. It’s all about CONTROL. Bringing out desired protective qualities in the dog through training while getting absolute control over those qualities.
I think that it is not smart to encourage a dog to be aggressive towards strangers on its own… I do think it is smart however to train your dog to act if you wish it to. Remember, a good protection dog has a solid temperament and is reliable in social situations to be calm. It is when you feel threatened by someone when you should activate the trained protective responses.
German Shepherds were not actually bred to “herd”. They were actually bred to provide guardianship of the flock. To protect against intruders and predators of the flock. They certainly are able to herd as well however, and sometimes served as dual purpose dogs in that aspect.
Remember— do not train aggression- train for respect and teamwork. Work with someone who will help you to increase protective instincts in a manner of which is positive for you and your family’s personal safety. You do not want the dog to seem “out of control” and just big and mean- you want them to seem confident and ready to protect you IF NEED BE- under your authorization alone.
I compete in the sport of Schutzhund… educate yourself in protection work and find yourself a good mentor. There is no protection without obedience first and foremost. You want control- not a loose cannon who’s dangerous to the general public.
My German Shepherd & Miniature Pinscher Puppies