What would be the best way to train a young male german sheperd?

Question

I am thinking of taking in a 7 month old male unaltered german sheperd....he has been outside tied up most of the time and had no social skills....any advice would be appreciated as I know this will be a challenge as I am used to dealing with older dogs

Answer 1

I have a german shepherd male intact - he is now 5 years old. If you are bringing him inside crate train. German Shepherds suffer a great deal from separation anxiety, and the dog is really going to bond with you. It sounds like you are going to be the first to show him kindness. It won't take him very long to get potty trained; once the dog bonds, shepherds are very good at picking up on your mood by the tone in your voice. You should never even have to raise your voice because he is going to know when you aren't happy. Also since he isn't still a little puppy, he will probably train quicker. Be aware, if not crated while you are gone, shepherds can be hell on a house. Mine male is okay now, but I'm still crating the female and she is over a year. Over the years, I've had shoes, socks, plants, and couches eaten, but once that boy is trained, he's trained for life.

Be very patient, german shepherds are highly trainable, not highly intelligent - despite the myth that german shepherds have this phenomenal intellligence. I find it is best to teach one thing at a time, for a long time. I also have a female husky and I've heard huskies aren't smart, wrong, she can learn a trick in a matter of minutes. The shepherd it might take a week or two, the difference is once the shepherd knows it, he will do it forever, the husky when she wants to. Also if I'm going to be gone for a regular 8 hour day, the husky still gets crated even though she's more than a year older - huskies very smart - not very trainable. My german shepherd has been roaming the house since about two or maybe little younger. Also I trust him with my life, I don't know how the dog knows, but if I scream playing around like I'm fighting with someone he does nothing. However, I had someone come up behind me outside and startle me and I screamed and when he came over he looked like a possessed dog - growling and drooling.

I've had no trouble teaching my shepherds that I am alpha; speak firmly and he's going to get it. Also once my shepherd was trained, he was trained, he doesn't go in the house no matter what's going on - I have a younger female shepherd who just had her heat cycle and I never have to worry about him being out and marking her crate, or around her while they are inside.

Congratulations on your pup, it is a wonderful breed of dog, I raised huskies for years, and only starting breeding the shepherds a couple of years ago, and they have stolen my heart.

Answer 2

There is a really good training book that may help you. It is called,

How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend
A Training Manual for Dog Owners

The Monks of New Skete

They raise German Shepherd's and have unique ways of training them.

I would go slow and easy with him. Let him adjust to everything on a gradual level. He will probably be housebroken, as he is already accustomed to relieving himself outdoors. As he proves himself by behaving as you wish, let him have more freedom around the house. Get him a couple of large toys to occupy his time. I always recommend a large kong toy because it can be stuffed with peanut butter and can occupy them for lengthy periods. For socialization, test him cautiously at first, by taking him on short walks near a part where other dogs are and watch his body language. Take some treats along and reward him with a treat or favorite toy when he behaves in a way that you find appropriate. Getting him neutered will help with some unacceptable behaviors that he may have. Good Luck.

Answer 3

With lots of patience...

He's already developed any fears and anxieties, and he's not been socialized. So, I'd suggest you get him in to Obedience training, with a trainer who isn't one of those kick-dog-butt..someone who teaches YOU more than the dog.

You need to play with him...but NOT tug-o-war. Tug-o-war is what pack animals do to establish dominance. This is not a good game for ANY dog and owner.

Lots of affection. Patience. German Shepherds are bright dogs, one of the smartest, but they are slow to "grow up". They can be very puppy-like until they're 3-4 years old.

I love them...good luck.