Adam, I am sure I knew less about dogs than every poster known to man. The more I learned, the scarier it got . In learning, I started to see how many things could go wrong . But, with a "I can do this" and a "one day at a time" attitude I saw how many things can go right . You just have to care about the outcome. Certainly sounds like you do .

Adam, just want to let you know, it looks like you are doing fine. I didn't realize many things until AFTER I got my dog, such as who to buy from, what to look for in a dog and etc. In short, I bought my dog from a byb and now I'm just hoping she stays healthy and am still learning on her temperament. The fact that you found this site before you got your pup is a HUGE advantage. I'm grateful I found this site while my pup is still young (1yr) and plan to take advantage of all the info. I know I have made many mistakes already, but I have made progress too. Progress that many people comment on when they meet my dog and see how much she knows already, even though in my mind, she still, or WE still have a TON to learn. My parents were illegals and third worlders, but dog training is really not as complicated we make it out to be. Like Mr. Frawley said it's not rocket science, it's common sense, so even though I come from a third world background, I think I am doing fine and so will you. Just keep learning!

Well, I did not think I was a newb until I came to this site. I have had not including the springer spaniel I will get in 2 weeks, and the westy I have now 3 dogs in my life-all death do us part. I first heard about dogs, and their pack mantality from Ceasar Malan-not sure about spelling. I bought the videos, and got a very limited idea of what it is about. Isn't it absolutly fascinating? The more I learn; the more I want to apply it with my dog. It is very noticable the behavior diffrences with my Westy then other dogs I have had. I have never had such a well behaved puppy she will be 1 yr old next month. It makes me proud, so I find myself taking her along with me to public places more then any dog I have ever had.I regret that I was not able to have that relationship with my other dogs.

Is there anyone in your life with whom you have discussed your "theories" or beliefs on dogs and training, etc with in the past (ie: pre-Leerburg/reading) days?

The reason I ask is because you might be surprised at the foundation you've already established. My husband recently told me he's quite impressed with what I've learned, as he has known me since way before I got my last GSD (which was pre-Leerburg for me for sure!!!).

I hope this makes sense, but I think it is really helpful to discuss what you learn here with others in your life who know you well. IMO, it's one thing to talk dogs with others on this board who could "talk dogs" till the cows come home. It's another thing entirely to "talk dogs" with "NORMAL" ( :grin people. In my experience, by doing so, it seems to reinforce what you actually do know and helps to solidify the plan(s) you have or are making for life with your pup. JMO and experience--of course I discuss these things with people who actually CARE about what I am doing. The truest test though is to get the dog (pup) and to just go for it...think of what you want, not of what you fear.