Is the German Shepard a very easy dog to train as a puppy?

Question

I'm getting one for Christmas..

and Im entending on starting its training very early..

so then it can get the aspect of what I'm trying to teach it..

I also want to perhaps if me and the pup can, do the "agility trials" that AKC does, and maybe even "best in show" I've ALWAYS wanted to be a dog handler like that, and i'm apperently (as my family and people tell me) I'm a very good trainer and handler...I'm only 13, and I was just wondering what to expect really. =)

Thank you.

Answer 1

German Shepherds are one of the most intelligent breeds of dog, hence why they are used by organizations such as the police and mountain rescue. With their easy going ways and the need to please their human, they excel in all areas from agility to intelligence. However, as they have this level of intelligence, they do tend to get bored easily and will look for something new to do. This may include chewing your shoes (especially when teething) and digging large holes in the garden to lay in. At this point, you need to be able to ascertain your authority. They respond well to a good voice and you should practice using a firm and clear language. You will never need to hit your dog, just use voice and hand control. (Some people do, and it disgusts me)  GS's love to be active. Can I say, that only one person in the family should train the dog. If that's going to be you, you should ask the family to respect that and not try to train the dog to do something else when you are not there. A dog only ever has one true master, no matter what the breed. My German Shepherd is now thirteen and a much loved part of our family. She has taught herself lots of her 'little ways' and despite getting old and is now stone deaf, she is still very clever. Enjoy your puppy. x

Answer 2

yess they are very smart and are really good in agility ccompetitionsif trained right.

Answer 3

i have a german shepard they r extremely ezy to train but mine is a guard dog and is very aggressive toward ppl he thinks r in a threatening stance or r in hat hoods or have hands in there pockets and if he senses fear he also lets them know that hes there lol anyway they depending or there genetics some have very big chests and r tall like mine but some have big chests and have a slant and the toward there legs which r the show dogs ur lookin for and r expensive.also the they have problems with there hips as they get older becuz they r a big dog so if u take care of it and keep him inside they will live prbly to 12 mine is 11 and in great shape but is almost rdy to go ;(            good luck!

Answer 4

You are going to have a lot of fun training your dog, you will  get  fit yourself doing agility and meet a lot of very nice people who will be only too happy to help you. Start with puppy socialization classes at a good Obedience Club. German Shepard's are easy to train but often can outsmart the trainer...if they decide they don't want to do something they won't. The best advice i can give you is to always make training fun and reward your dog whenever he/she gets it right. If you start to get frustrated, leave the lesson. What ever you learn in class you must continue at home (like home work) and always be consistent.

Answer 5

They are very smart and this sounds like a great dog for you to train.  Good luck.