As with all aspects of training, try to begin this training when your puppy is less than four months old. These first few months are particularly important as any behavior that has been learned will stay with your dog throughout his life. This process should continue for up to two years.

 

 

Training your puppy to comfortably interact with people, other animals and situations is known as socializing your dog. Socializing is also important as it can help to prevent serious behavioral problems in your German shepherd - such as aggression, timidity and shyness.

 

 

A puppy often barks at strangers – this is actually your dog’s way of protecting or warning you. Try to get your dog as familiar with strangers as possible by introducing him to people who call at the house and having them give your puppy a treat. If this is still a problem, you may have to leave blinds or curtains closed to eliminate distractions from outside.

 

 

German shepherds tend to be dependable with children; however you should still exercise caution. Babies tend to figure largely in a puppy’s life – if you have a baby or toddler in your home, its important to make sure they get used to each other. You should allow your puppy to inspect the baby, but hold him on the leash while you do it the first time. Never tease a dog with a baby.

 

 

Young children can be almost as challenging as babies. A puppy just can’t help joining in if there’s a group of small children running around and playing. Playing is acceptable, but make sure children don’t tease your puppy - teasing a dog is actually the major cause of children being bitten by a pet – take it seriously if your child is jabbing or sticking fingers into the dog’s face.

 

 

Older children are better with a puppy – the ideal age for a child to have their first dog is between the ages of 8 and 12. You’ll soon discover that even the most responsible child generally needs some reminding to help look after their puppy. Children this age actually make excellent trainers for a puppy – they tend to lack the self-consciousness of adults and are of course, learning themselves.

 

 

Aggression towards people is an extremely difficult thing to correct. German shepherd dogs are known for their placid nature and their ability to bond with people, so you may never have this problem. To effectively deal with an aggressive dog, you first have to try to determine why he is aggressive – he may be frightened or being teased. Fear biting is a possible symptom.

 

 

Training your puppy to interact effectively with people can be hard work - fortunately you have one of the friendliest breeds that there is.