German shepherds are excellent companions.
The German shepherd is the most versatile of all canine breeds. These animals are home- and family-oriented, and they make excellent companions and protectors. The German shepherd grows to be big, strong and fairly stubborn, so he will display dominance if allowed. This breed needs firm guidance, so obedience training will set boundaries that can help him become a respected member of society.
Benefits
German shepherds enjoy the mental stimulation and challenge that obedience training provides. Training also strengthens the relationship between you and your dog as it opens up a clear line of communication. It helps you know what to expect of your dog in all circumstances, and the dog clearly understands what's expected. When boundaries are set, it educates a dog on the proper way to relate to other dogs, animals and people. Basic manners will prevent him from developing problem behavior such as jumping on people, chewing, barking and digging.
Consequences of Disobedience
Untrained dogs are a major cause of puppies and dogs ending up in animal shelters. A disobedient dog can never be too close with his family because his bad behavior makes it difficult to take him out in public for family outings. Therefore, he ends up spending much of his time alone. It's common for untrained dogs to challenge authority and though an obedience-trained dog may try to test you, training is a tool that will help you curb such conduct.
Obedience Before Schutzhund
Obedience training is the prerequisite for Schutzhund, a challenging and competitive sport originally designed as a breed test for German shepherds. It conveys aggression in the protective phase, and the bite and hold aspect of the sport is an important training goal. In obedience training, the puppy's bite behavior should be redirected instead of inhibited. A training school will know use the puppy's predatory instincts through ball-chasing and tug of war to prepare him for the more demanding tasks of Schtuzhund.
Obedience Training Schools
Training styles are important when choosing the right school for your dog. Look for a class that uses humane training methods and has trainers who encourage and reward good behavior. Be sure to check out credentials, accreditation and trainer experience. A genuine love of dogs and enthusiasm for training are important attributes because it motivates trainers to do a good job.
Pre-Screening a School
Visit a few classes before making a final decision. Note the equipment used, the class size, its cleanliness and safety, and see that it has a fun atmosphere your dog will enjoy. References and success stories are a plus because satisfied clients reveal a lot about the quality of an obedience school. Have clear goals of what you want your dog to achieve and go over them with the school you're considering. Make sure the class schedule works for you and the tuition fits your budget. It's important that your dog's vaccinations be current, and the school should expect clients to provide proof.
Clubs and Organizations
Training in Michigan is available with a number of clubs and organizations, including: the Wolverine German Shepherd Dog Club of West Michigan, a not-for-profit that is an American Kennel Club-sanctioned specialty club dedicated to "providing opportunities for education relating to the care, breeding, training and showing of pure-bred dogs"; Joli's German Shepherd Dogs at Whistledown Kennel, which offers obedience classes in everything from beginner training to good citizenship and problem solving; MondouCu Animal Training, which has a training facility in Watson Township and offers training from the AKC S.T.A.R. puppy to basic and advanced obedience, along with specialty and group instruction; and the Southern Michigan Obedience Training Club, which offers multiple training classes in eight locations. See Resources for links to some of the obedience training available in Michigan.
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