re: Training a puppy

quote:

---

He is a German shepherd and I would like basic house obedience

---

That won't be hard. Very smart dogs.

Be patient and consistent. No need to hit him. No need scream at him.

He doesn't know 10 minutes after he has peed on the floor that you are angry because he peed.

As soon as you see him start to pee take him out. Take him out every hour or two and tell him "hurry" or "pee" or something and when he does give him a nice pat on the head.

If you can stay home with him a week he will we be peeing outside I bet by the end of the week.

The only time I have ever spanked one of my dog was when they failed to come after I taught them the come command. I teach them come on a long rope lead. After I let them off the lead I work them at further and further distance until I know they know the command. After that if they don't obey I don't beg them and I don't hit them with anything that will hurt them. I use news paper or a soft baseball hat. I say "come" once or twice and in a firm voice. If they do not come I go to them swat them with the paper or hat and say "come" while pulling them by the collar back to where I was. Smartest dog I ever had was a springer and I had her coming on command at 8 weeks old. I only spanked her once with my hat and you could tell she felt bad about making me angry.

Gun Dog has some good tips that work in the field and in the house.