


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. GSDs are very observant, and your puppy will pick up on your cues and reactions around new people and new situations. 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. 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. 15 Top-Rated Foods For German Shepherd Dogsįrom 8 to 16 Weeks Training Goal #1: Socialization.Everything You Need for a German Shepherd Dog.You can use this timeline as a guide to make sure you are hitting all the right target goals during the crucial stages of your puppy’s life. “That said,” states Adams, “the sky is the limit, if the owner ca devote a good amount of quality time to the dog, especially during the critical first year of life.” This breed’s high level of intelligence and strong willingness to work mean your GSD must receive consistent and ongoing training from an early age. This combination makes them very trainable, which is one of the most appealing qualities of the breed.” Nadia Adams of Oher Tannen German Shepherd Dogs has been a GSD breeder for 15 years and comments, “A well-bred German Shepherd Dog is highly intelligent, thriving on praise and wanting to please the owner. If you choose this route, be sure to discuss with the breed rescue organization your needs and what you are looking for in a puppy they should also be able to help you find the puppy whose temperament and personality will be the best match for you. You may also wish to acquire a puppy from one of the breed-rescue organizations listed in the AKC Rescue Network currently, over 40 GSD rescues are listed, a testament to the popularity of this magnificent breed. Breeders observe their puppies’ personalities and drives and can match the right puppy to the right individual or family. Finding a Puppy Who Is the Best Fit for Youįinding a good, ethical breeder is one of the most important ways to ensure you are getting off to the right start in obtaining the puppy who will be the best fit for you and your household. Making sure you bring out the best of this remarkable breed starts with puppy training, when your GSD is most impressionable. A well-trained German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a joy to live with, one of many reasons why this is America’s second-most popular dog breed.
