BREED GUIDE
YOUR GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPPY
German Shepherds started out herding sheep and went on to police, guide dog and search work, so they're clever, loyal and very tuned in to their people. As puppies they're big, mouthy and keen, and what they learn about visitors, other dogs and being calm in the first months stays with them.
WHAT I'D START IN THE FIRST WEEKS
VISITORS
MAKE THE DOOR BORING
Shepherds can take guarding the house very seriously. Calm, planned visitors from the first weeks, a house line on and a reward for coming away from the door help them learn that guests are no big deal.
THE MOUTH
PLAN FOR THE LAND SHARK
That big puppy mouth can feel a lot. Have chews ready, give them plenty of sleep, because an overtired Shepherd puppy bites far more, and calmly step away when the teeth come out.
OTHER DOGS
WATCH, DON'T GREET
Lots of on-lead hellos can lead to frustration later. Teach your puppy to watch other dogs calmly and come back to you for a treat, so passing dogs on walks becomes easy.
