A German shepherd is a great dog!  They are loyal, strong, protective and reliable working dogs.  But before bringing home your German shepherd puppy, it is a positive idea to gather as much information ensuring you are knowledgeable about your new addition.  Here are some basic background facts about this breed.

Senses are Keen

These dogs have sharp senses, and there are ways to enhance their development.  For instance, these dogs have a strong sense of smell.  So when you take your dog for runs allow your dog to roam around and sniff the environment.  It is a joy for your dog to embark in this experience.  Therefore, encourage it.  It is what your dog naturally likes to do.

In addition, these dogs are very intelligent, which makes training easy.  And Florida dog obedience training courses assist in showing you how you to contribute towards your dog’s progress through training.  For example, if you play fetch with your dog, it provides the dog with a skill that improves obedience.  For when your dog plays with you, he/she has to be obedient to you through positive reinforcement.  This carries all the way through your dog’s life making certain that your dog is well behaved, as he/she gets older.

To find out more information about German shepherd breeds, talk to a k9 obedience instructor or enroll in a puppy class today.

There are certain breed dogs that need to herd animals.  It is part of their make-up.  They are happy when they are herding providing a sense of fulfillment.  But how do you train a dog to herd?  What do you need to know?  Here is a basic breakdown of what you need to know about herd training.

Use Other Herding Dogs as Examples

If you know other dogs that already herd, then it is a good idea to pair up your dog with adult herding dogs.  However, know the herding dogs’ traits.  Reason being is if there are negative traits you do not wish your dog to pick-up then ditch this idea immediately.  Pick only herding dogs you want your dog to emulate.  Your dog retains the negative and positive habits, so be selective in your choosing.

Train One Dog at a Time

You may have an experienced dog with yours showing the ropes, but you do not want to train more than one dog at once.  It could become confusing for your dog to translate the praise when this occurs being unsure who the positive reinforcement is directed at.

Correct Your Dog along the Way

During training, your dog will make mistakes.  It is natural.  But you also do not want your dog to start developing bad habits.  Thus, the best thing to do is to repeat the same tasks until they are completed correctly before moving on.  It may seem mundane, but it is necessary ensuring your dog and the herd is safe in the future.

To find out more information about herd training dos and don’ts, talk to a Florida dog obedience training professional or a k9 obedience instructor today.

A puppy has a lot to learn about the world and some things may seem scary at first.  But after overcoming different tasks, a puppy’s assurance soars.  Here are a few ways to help your puppy increase self-esteem in a positive manner.

Try Obstacle Courses

Puppies love to play and have lots of energy to expend.  Thus, obstacle courses are a great way to combine both and assemble a strong character along the way.  For when a puppy accomplishes the task of walking up a ramp, going through a tunnel or proceeding downhill then it boosts inner strength. It shows the puppy not to be afraid of something and that the pup can accomplish a task that seems overwhelming at first, but is a cinch to accomplish.  When you go through these little tasks, provide lots of praise.  Make a game out of it.  Provide rewards and keep the mood positive.  Your dog will be running through the obstacle course in no time.

Socialize with Others

The sooner your pup is able to socialize, the better for your dog’s demeanor.  Introduce your canine to other puppies on the same level.  Also, if you have visitors that come on a regular basis, such as a delivery representative or your mother, then have your dog become familiar with that person.  It helps your dog grow to be social and not aggressive.

For more tips on how to build your dog’s confidence at a young age, check out puppy kindergarten or puppy preschool classes today.  The instructor will be able to provide you with additional ideas and positive methods.

Dogs need exercise, and one way for your dog to attain this goal is through swimming, but you need to take the proper steps to show your dog how to swim.  You do not want the introduction to water to be a tough transition.  Throwing your dog into water and hoping your dog knows what to do is a huge no-no in swim training.  Your dog will become frightened, and never wish to enter the water again.  Instead, use these tips to teach your dog to swim in an upbeat manner leaving a long lasting positive water impression.

Introduction to Water

Regardless of your dog’s age, find calm, shallow water for the introductions.  Then slowly have your dog inch his/her way into the water.  Be sure there is a long leash on your dog, and walk into the water alongside.  Provide lots of praise so there is no panic on your dog’s part.  Show your dog that it is okay and a positive experience.  Once your dog is comfortable, your dog will begin to show swimming abilities.  Just keep it light.  If your dog appears to be mastering the art of swimming, and enjoying it, then go into deeper waters.

What to Remember When Going Swimming with Your Dog

Remember to always bring fresh water for your dog to drink.  Your dog needs to stay hydrated as much as you do.  If you are swimming in an ocean, do not let your dog swim into currents.  In addition, do not let your dog to jump into deep water.  You do not know what can be lurking in the waters without gradually entering it.  Prevent any accidents by gradually entering the water of choice.  These are actually good reminders for you, and your dog.

To learn more swimming tips, talk to a Florida obedience training professional or a k9 obedience instructor today.