As a newbee, I want you to know how important your advice is to me. While my wife and I have always had dogs, I've never tried to train them beyond house breaking and a few manners.

I now have a 9 1/2 week old GS puppy with a lot of drive (hopefully Schutzhund prospect) that I don't want to screw up. Following the good advice on this board and Ed's puppy tape:

1. the pup is now sitting, lying down and coming on command - not consistently, but better every day.

2. Understands "outside" although he still makes mistakes,

3. is bonding with me - I'm at home until Christmas, so I'm with him quite a bit. In addition to play time, walks and the above training, he and I take some quiet time outside in the yard together. I can re~~~y feel that I'm gaining a close friend which is a great experience.

He does not resist the X-pen in my office, nor night time crate in our bedroom, but he still has probelms with the crate downstairs even after a long walk. I feel confident with consistency, that will pass.

I've only had him two weeks and have learned a lot - due in large part to the discussions on this board, responses to my questions and materials on this website. I say this so that you who are experienced understand the importance of the contribution you are making. I'm sure you do, but I think it's worth repeating.

My sincere thank you.

Doyle

 Quote:

DOYLE: I say this so that you who are experienced understand the importance of the contribution you are making. I'm sure you do, but I think it's worth repeating.

My sincere thank you.

Doyle, very nice post!!
I have a GSD that was trained for me. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />
Now I'm learning how not to confuse a young pup also. My biggest errors are trying to do too much to soon. To all on this board and a few new friends,thanks everyone is keeping me in line.

Every night I hear my pup say,
"I thank everyone who has urged my master not to ask me to do what I can not at this time"
Give me time and I'll do all you ASK and MORE !!

Listen to your pup and all the experienced members of this Board. You can't go wrong!!

Good luck with your pup!