How Much To Train A German Shepherd

Training Goal #: Socialization

Puppies of all breeds have a critical socialization window that closes at 12 to 16 weeks of life, and your GSD puppy is no exception. In fact, for GSDs, who by nature are protective guardians, socialization is extra important so that your puppy learns which strangers are friendly and not a threat.

GSDs are very observant, and your puppy will pick up on your cues and reactions around new people and new situations. During this critical period, having exposure to many different kinds of people in non-threatening situations will help your puppy be confident among friendly strangers rather than fearful or aggressive. And even during times of social and physical distancing, you can still socialize your puppy safely.

Proper socialization cannot be overemphasized for this breed as Adams notes, The foundation for most training is confidence. It is critical that the GSD puppy is well socialized from an early age onward. Safely exposing the puppy to new sights, sounds, and smells is absolutely critical for development. Good socialization translates to confidence.

Certified dog trainer and CGC evaluator Jacqui Foster, CPDT-KA, echoes this sentiment: I tend to lean more towards developing self-confidence in the puppy. For this I recommend short, fun, three-minute games that engage the puppy with the owner as well as in noises, weird and uneven surfaces, family members, etc., throughout the day. A confident puppy is a happy puppy.

Types Of Training To Consider For A German Shepherd

You need to think about training for your German Shepherd sooner rather than later. After all, trying to teach an older dog how to do simple tasks is way more of a challenge than starting with a fresh, eager brain like that found in a German Shepherds head.

There are four different types of training courses to consider when owning a German Shepherd, and the earlier one starts when your dog is as little as 8 weeks old. Here are the following training course options and why you should use them:

German Shepherd Training Books

If youve decided to train your German Shepherd dog on your own, youll want a little bit of guidance. This is where training books come in. Dog training isnt always breed-specific, yet there are some things you may need to take into consideration when training your German Shepherd.

Training books geared toward the specific needs of German Shepherds can be an invaluable tool when training your dog. Some good examples are the German Shepherd Owners Guide: From Pup to Pal and the German Shepherd Handbook.

You can consult your breeder, local GSD club, or veterinarian for recommendations.

However, there are also a few good books online that may prove helpful, such as:

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How Will A Trained Shepherd Learn To Adjust To A New Home

Many breeders who train their Shepherds before selling them will take care of crate training before the dogs go to their new homes. Taking care of crate training gives new owners extra time and makes it easier for the dogs to adjust.

These dogs will likely become used to riding in a vehicle from an early age, becoming perfectly comfortable with car rides. Training is also likely to include climbing stairs inside a home and getting used to different conditions out in the yard.

Breeders who train their dogs before sending them to their new homes will get them used to bathing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. When a dog has become used to bathing and grooming, these tests will be easier for the new owner to perform.

Do Shepherd Corgi Mixes Have Specific Health Problems

German Shepherds and Corgis are both purebred dogs that have a high probability of passing health issues to their offspring, even crosses.

German Shepherds suffer from genetic diseases like hip and elbow dysplasia, Pannus , and epilepsy.

They can also struggle with hemophilia , von Willebrands disease , pancreatic acinar atrophy , degenerative myelopathy , and unexplained seizures.

Corgis suffer similarly from von Willebrands disease, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy as well as intervertebral disc disease secondary to a long back combined with dwarfism and progressive retinal atrophy .

Hybrids can be healthier than their parents but they may also inherit the same problems.

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Bloat Stomach can fill with fluid and gas and then twist, thanks to a deep chest inherited from the German Shepherd Dog.
• Cataracts
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Intervertebral disc disease

German Shepherds can live 10 to 12 years while Corgis have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Corgi Shepherd crosses typically live 12 to 15 years like their smaller parent.

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What Are The Costs For Trained Gsd Protection

The mere cost of buying a GSD puppy can run you at least US$300, with puppies from reputable breeders selling for as much as $900. If you factor in the average annual costs of caring for your trained GSD and their life span vet checkups, specialized protection training classes, maintenance medication, food, toys and licensing/processing fees for 7-10 years, you should expect to invest at least several thousands of dollar to keep your trained GSD.

However, with this hefty investment comes peace of mind, more responsibility, an added sense of security and a loyal, lovable addition to your family.

How much can I expect to pay for GSD protection training?

Though the prices vary widely depending on your expectations and which part of the world you live in, you can expect to pay as low as US$30 per training session for your GSD. However, if you are in the market for a committed and certified dog trainer to properly discipline and school your GSD in specialized protection or other social services, expect to pay as much as US$120 per session.

What Should I Feed My German Shepherd Husky Mix

To prevent this from happening to your mix, feed him with low-calorie puppy food. As a highly energetic and active dog the German Shepherd Husky mix has high exercise requirements. Your mix will need at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day, which you can divide into several shorter sessions.

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Commit To Basic Commands

Even if you dont intend to do upper-level training, join obedience competitions, or participate in Schutzhund, you should commit to mastering at least the basic commands of sit, down, stay, and come.

German Shepherds belong to the first tier of working dogs in the Dog Intelligence Ranking. Dogs in this group can obey commands at least 95% of the time.

This is the standard you should strive for when it comes to these basic obedience commands as these will help you handle your dog in many real-life situations.

Where Can You Find Cheap German Shepherd Dogs

You will be able to find GSD puppies who cost much less than $1,500. The question is do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament?

On Craigslist or similar classified ads, many dog owners sell puppies from oops litters or puppies that they bred on purpose without any health testing. These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e.g. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. They might be as cheap as $200. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs!

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They Are Easy To Train

One of the best things about owning a German Shepherd is the fact that they are very intelligent. This makes training easier than you could ever imagine whether it is potty training or you want to teach them a new trick.

That is why trained German Shepherds are so valuable because by the time they are ready there is very little they cannot do or learn.

What Is Important When You Start Taking Out Your Dog

• Always clean: You must clean everything. Imagine all the dogs around the street doing potty everywhere. If everyone does this, then it will become very Bad stuff. Your Dog is Your Responsibility so Always Check And Make sure That You Take the Things clean.
• Take under control Your Dog: Very often People let their Dogs Go around without Control And Chase Other People. Some people Are scared Or do not Like Other Dogs to chase them so You mustnt Make feel uncomfortable other people.
• Always Take Your Dog On a leash: Even If you Trust Your Puppy or dog And you know That your German Shepherd Dog is not gonna hurt Nobody. It is always better to not trust very much especially if you are in a busy area where there are a lot of people around.

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How To Train A German Shepherd To Attack

German Shepherd dogs are naturally protective. If you are in any type of real danger, you wont need a special command to get your German Shepherd to help you.

Because you can rely on their natural protection instinct in the event of an actual emergency, its unwise to teach your German Shepherd to attack on command. While members of law enforcement often utilize German Shepherds to subdue criminals, both the human and the canine involved undergo rigorous professional training.

If your German Shepherd dog is simply a pet, there is no reason to train them to attack on command. German Shepherd dogs who are well-trained and well-socialized will be able to differentiate between an actual threat and a perceived threat, whereas aggressive German Shepherds will react even when the situation doesnt call for it.

Encouraging aggressive behavior in your German Shepherd can have disastrous results, and puts you, your family, your dog, and the public at large at risk.

Determine The Best Reward

All dogs have a reward that they respond best to. Most German Shepherds are food-motivated, so youll find that treats are effective for reinforcing good behavior.

Others, however, prefer to play as a reward. For such GSDs, you might try tossing them a toy or playing a short game of tug whenever they get things right. Other dogs are happy enough with kind praises and an ear scratch.

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The Cost Of Supplies For A German Shepherd

Having the right supplies can make welcoming your new German Shepherd into your home that much easier. After sorting through more than 250 items across the best seller lists on Amazon, Walmart and PetSmart, the initial cost of supplies is likely to fall anywhere between $215 and $855. On average, your first-year cost should be around the $450 mark for a large dog.

Other equipment, such as a muzzle, clothing, play pens and fences are not included here. Rather, it accounts for essential supplies. To help save on some of these items, second-hand stores, local pet shops and popular websites might be worth considering.

Check our Dog Supplies Guide and get tips to choose the right items for you and your dog . Learn everything about costs, and find the best products available.If you are on a budget check our special selection and buy everything new for less than $200.

For example, here are 5 of my favorite products, offering excellent value at a low price. You will find non-slip stainless-steel bowls, a lovely dog collar with different color and size options, a strong dog leash with a comfortable handle, a soft dog bed, and a great dog toy set supporting a non-profit dog rescue. Click on each image to check the price on Amazon.

Leave your email at the top or bottom of this article to get our free supplies checklist with tips to select the right size for each product.

Never Yell At Or Physically Scold Your Dog

It is very important that you keep in mind that your German Shepherd, like you, is an emotional creature. Think about how you learn and function best. Chances are that you are most receptive to new things if they are presented to you in a calm and deliberate manner and you probably wouldnt take to well to someone yelling at you or even hitting you in an effort to get you to learn something.

Your German Shepherd is just the same. If you are frustrated and then take that out on your GSD by yelling, this is just about the most counterproductive thing that you can do. In fact, it will likely have the effect of undoing a lot of effort that the both of you will have put in to the learning process.

So please remain calm at all times. If your dog is not performing a behavior to your satisfaction, then perhaps evaluate your approach instead of thinking that it is your GSDs fault.

As mentioned above, training your German Shepherd is a great opportunity for you take a look at yourself and maybe even make yourself a better person during the process.

Lastly, NEVER physically scold your dog. Doing so may lead to a number of undesirable results. Aside from undermining the training process, it will lead to your dog just not trusting you. If your GSD doesnt trust you, he will no longer be receptive to anything that you try to teach him.

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German Shepherds Love Children

If given proper socialization training from an early age German Shepherds love to play with children if they are trained well to do so when they are young. Proper puppy training is essential along with love, care and respect towards your pooch. Also, make sure not to allow children to play with the dog when eating or trying to remain alone.

EDIT 26/8/17: Removed section about the shedding behaviours of German Shepherds. Thanks for the comments!

Pro Tip: Avoid Puppy Food

All stage dog foods

Many options exist and not all brands will agree with your dog. Much like humans, dogs stomaches are all different so different foods will agree one dog where they do not with another from the same breed, or even from the same litter!

Below are approximate costs for a few popular dog food brands. And remember, because these foods are < em> popular< /em> or because your vet recommends them does not mean they are good for your dog:

Purina: approximately $25 per month

You can buy Purina dog food at the Dollar Store, KMart, and most gas stations.

It can sometimes sit on the shelves for years before entering your dogs body.

Its also one of the most recommended dog foods by bet. Ill let you put the gut-wrenching dots together on this one

Blue Buffalo: approximately $60 per month

Blue Buffalo makes a strong product, but has experienced a handful of unfortunate recalls so we are weary to recommend them outright. Even if theyve made changes, its difficult for us to recommend a dog food that could have been sitting on the shelves for months

Merrick: approximately $75 per month

Lifes Abundance approximately $100 per month

The pricing for Lifes Abundance mentioned above factors in shipping, as the food is direct to consumer. This means it doesnt sit on shelves for months. Their grain-free option is what we use and recommend. It has limited ingredients, which is something to look for when youre searching for dog food.

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German Shepherd Training: The Right Way

How long it takes to train a German Shepherd depends on how consistent you are and how well you support your dog to understand.

You must also consider your GSDs:

• age are they an energetic puppy or more confident adult
• previous training are they fresh to obedience or do they have some basics under their belt
• whether you are using the right training methods that are simple for your dog to understand

The most effective and easy-to-understand system for German Shepherds to learn is called positive reward training. Using positive rewards allows you to mark the specific behaviors your German Shepherd performs right at nearly the exact moment they do them.

Socializing Your German Shepherd Puppy

Part of training your German Shepherd is making sure they are properly socialized. Socialization involves getting your dog used to all sorts of real-world scenarios so they can grow up fearless and full of confidence.

Fear-based aggression is a serious problem among GSDs. In such cases, unfamiliar or scary situations trigger aggressive behaviors.

The goal of socialization is to make your dog comfortable in all sorts of environments. So, as early as possible, give your puppy plenty of opportunities to interact with different people and animals.

Show them many different places and make sure they get used to all sorts of sights, sounds, and smells.

Socialization also involves being open to handling. For example, you should be able to fuss over their paws and ears without drama. They should also get used to being handled by other people.

This is useful when you need to have them groomed, walked, or boarded. Having a properly socialized dog will also allow you to train them in real-world settings.

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Click More Reward Less

After several weeks, you should be able to have your German Shepherd perform several tricks before giving a reward. However, its important to continue to use the clicker to let them know that they have done correctly and a treat is coming.

If your dog starts to look anxious or frustrated, it may be that youre asking too much of them between rewards. Go back and reward for every trick for a little while to let them know that theyre doing great.

Something to keep in mind is that each of these training sessions should be 5 10 minutes in length. You want to give enough time for your dog to learn something new and repeat that trick several times but dont want to go so long that they start to get bored.