I am considering adopting a 6 month old Doberman Shepherd cross. Would it be a mistake to adopt this dog if I have minimal experience with dogs?

I have found that anyone who is willing to put the time into the relationship and training with the dog can be successful. Many people with loads of experience have issues because they don’t want to invest the time or energy.

I would throw a word of caution out there. Just because the shelter reports that this dog is good with other dogs & cats doesn’t mean this dog will not be a problem with your cats and you will want to proceed as if the dog has never seen a cat. Many times shelter dogs will behave differently in the shelter setting than they do once they settle into a home. There is a honeymoon period with most shelter dogs, where they behave beautifully at first and as they feel more comfortable they begin to display behaviors that sometimes catch the new owners off guard. Consistent, firm leadership is the key.

Since you have limited experience, I’d make a few recommendations for materials that will help.

If you adopt this dog (or any dog) you may want to read about our Groundwork program and the video that picks up where the article leaves off - Pack Structure for the Family Pet.

Basic Dog Obedience
The Power of Training Dogs with Markers
Obedience and Behavior Foundations with Tyler Muto Part 1 and Part 2
From the Rescue to the Home with JJ Belcher

I hope this helps!

Cindy