I am new to dogs and pups and have done some basic research, esp. through Leerburg resources.

The pup: 11 wk. old GSD working line, good in crate, sits for dinner, good outside, tries to eat everything and everyone most of the time. OK with the cats.

The problem: pup gets out to play in the "play room" with me for a while several times at day but probably needs more exercise. My entire town is full of rocks and pup tries to eat every other one of them. A potty trip outside involves watching closely and sometimes correction. Playing in the yard is usually out of the question but not always.
I have been trying collar pop corrections, but fear that constantly yanking on the pup is not fair or good for either of us, but he doesnt' complain and is unfazed.

Questions: How much exercise does a pup this young need at one time and over the course of the day, and is it ok to let him tug on the leash when we go out. (If in a hurry or losing patience, I just pick him up but that won't last long.)
This moose is so big and energetic it is hard to remember he is a baby and not to expect too much.

Helen

I understand your frustration. My Jack Russel mix longed for rocks. I had a very hard time taking him anywhere, especially our own back yard, we have over 1/2 an acre, and there are thousands of rocks. I felt bad always correcting my Cody too.
Here is what I did, and just to help you with a little encouragement, Cody could care less about rocks now, he grew out of it.
Here is what I did. I used the opportunity to try and teach Cody, spit, or yuk. I kept a treat pouch on me. WHeneven he would pick up a rock I would say spit and of course at first he had no idea what I wanted from him. I would take the rock from his mouth and give him a treat. Pretty soon, he would spit the rock out and look for the treat whenever I said spit. Try it
it just may work for you.

Helen,

I had this same problem with my GSD puppy. Please give me a call. **
Stephanie Irwin

Edited by Connie Sutherland (06/28/2009 11:53 AM)
Edit reason: deletion

Stephanie, I'd advise you to take your phone number out of your post! Anyone can see that!

I took a different approach to Sharon. I taught "leave it" in the house and then took that outside with us. Now my puppy couldn't care less about rocks and sticks.

 Quote: scott garrett

I took a different approach to Sharon. I taught "leave it" in the house and then took that outside with us. Now my puppy couldn't care less about rocks and sticks.

I suspect he will outgrow the rock thing, which is already on some days and off others. In the meantime, how long did it take to get Sharon to "leave it?" Did you use correction or pure motivational/reward?

I am using 'yuck' for what it's worth.

How hungry he is seems to make some kind of difference--I think.
H

thanks. Will load pouch with treats and pockets with patience.

h