How easy is it to train my new eight month old german shepherd?

Question

I just got a german shepherd. He is already eight months old. I want to know whether I can train him myself or if I need to get a dog trainer. he isn't potty trained, is yet to ungerstand words like "sit", "heel", etc.

Answer 1

I trained my puppy just fine by myself...and she is the best minding dog that I have ever owned. She never goes to the bathroom in the house and she has never chewed shoes or anything...you just have to have patience with your animal there is no sense in spending all that money to have someone else train your pet ...you want them to listen to you right...so you train them

Answer 2

Depending on whether or not he was abused before you got him or not, he may or may not have issues.

What you need to remember is that a dog trainer will not be training the dog for you, they will be teaching you how to train your dog. I'd recommend taking him to an obedience class with a trainer (or organization) you trust. PetSmart, Petco, etc are fine for "typical dogs", but they're not great if you have a problem dog. In that case, you'll want to consult someone who is familiar with your breed and has seen lots of the kind of problems you've been having.

While you're sourcing those things, work on basic things around the house, like potty training, sit, etc on your own. If you do a search for "dog training" to get basic tips on what to do. Your dog has the advantage of being a little older than the typical new puppy, so he will be able to learn very quickly and remember well already. Potty training will probably be very quick with him, GSDs are very smart and easy to train.

Don't forget that he doesn't come programmed to know things that you want him to, like sit, heel, etc. Babies aren't born knowing things, and you have to teach him. Treat him well and you'll be rewarded.
Good luck.

Answer 3

First and foremost, know that your dog wants to please you. This is his biggest goal in life. Second, understand that you don't speak the same language and that *consistency* is very very important.

Comparatively, Germans are the most obedient dogs out there, even more so than labrador and golden retrievers; so you have some luck there.

If you have time and patience, consider teaching him yourself. Chck out some books from your local library and catch an episode of two of the Dog Whisperer (actually, very helpful). Keep in mind that not only is your dog learning commands, but you're also learning to communicate with your dog. There are some ways to use your voice that will be more effective than others, and modern training manuals will discuss this.

If you have less time or could use some human guidance for your end of the deal, consider obedience classes with other people and their dogs, led by an obedience trainer. You can find a trainer who uses methods that fit your style and your budget by doing a little shopping around; telephone books and community message boards (especially on the internet) can be a great place to find reviews or contact information for potential trainers. PetSmart also provides training classes grouped by puppy age.

Potty training, however, will be your responsibility, but it's very easy with an eager-to-please dog (I taught my Golden in less than two weeks). The trick is to take him outside immediately after playing, eating, drinking, and sleeping. Give him a verbal cue (i.e. "Go potty") when you first let him out and then again *right before* he starts to go. This way he'll understand that's what you want him to do when you give the verbal cue. After that, give him *lots* of praise--play, rub him down, speak to him in a positive sounding voice, use his name a lot. Do this for a couple of days, and he'll find his own ways to let you know that he needs to go outside. Don't stop the praise when he learns; keep this up, so he'll feel inspired to let you know when he has to go.

Answer 4

Well, I have a 3 year old German shepherd and we started training her when she was about 9 months old. She still doesn't know how to make outside, but she knows things like "sit", "give paw" and "lay down" and "stay". If you have time, I don't think it would be a problem for you to train him yourself. That's what I did. However, I might have to get a dog trainer to train her how to make outside. It really depends on you--but at his age, I think its fine for you to start training him.

Answer 5

GSD's are very hiper in the beginning I know, I have two. I started early with the food thing, not getting grouchy when I would put my hand in there, just in case a little causing would do this.

There are certain things you can teach him things that are proper for that age because they won't sit still.

Potty training, no bitting your fingers or face with their needle teeth, but instead a toy, walking with a lead, not jumping.

More advance things or tricks when they're a bit more quiet.

Now my GSD's are just where I like them

Taylor your training to your GSD's character.

Answer 6

It wouldn't hurt to put him in some classes. Unless you know how to properly train a dog.
to potty train, take him outside every 1/2 hour and teach him the words "go potty" then when he goes throw him a party, get excited, GOOD BOY, GOOD POTTY, then give him a treat. It wont take him long to get the idea. Good luck.

Answer 7

It takes time. and patience. I recommend you get a book on puppies and training and read, then put the information to use. Don't get one of those "train your dog in 5 minutes" books. Those are junk, make better fire paper than advice. It will take alot of effort and time. You won't get a well trained dog instantly.

Answer 8

it depends on you, are you ready to train a pup? even if you take him to a trainer, you have to keep up on his "homework". Which means, you have to practice on the commands everyday, even after training classes are over.

I suggest going out and buying some books on the subject and also, a breed specific book on german shepards. I think it will help out alot.

Answer 9

If youre not a competent owner who knows how to train a pup, its easier for both of you if you opt for training.

Answer 10

Those are very smart dogs...should be easy to train...unless s/he lived outdoors, s/he should've been housebroken months ago...not to late to learn though!