German Shepherd
German Shepherd
Is it possible to have my german shepherd puppy trained like a police dog?
My husband really wants to have our 3 month old german shepherd puppy trained like a police dog, whether it be now or later. Does anyone know if this is possible and if so, where we can take her?
Yes, it is possible; however, it must be done with a dog of very STABLE temperment. Not every dog is suitable and trustworthy enough to withstand the stresses of this type of training.
At 3 months of age, this puppy should be started on regular basic training and socialization (see: http://www.dogstardaily.com/training/after-you-get-your-puppy) to start your puppy off properly. Take your puppy to Obedience Classes in your area (Kindergarten and Beginners Classes). Your puppy should first learn to be friendly and obedient. You can also get involved with a puppy Agility Class. In another 3-6 months you can then investigate Schutzhund or French Ring Sport Classes. Look for Schutzhund Instructors who train the dogs as if it were a game with “on” and “off” words and who aren’t extremely mean or harsh to the animals. When taught in this manner it is the OWNER not the DOG who is in control of what is going on and when. The DOG is not allowed to make independent decisions — it is following its master’s commands.
Technically, your puppy shouldn’t be forced to jump over things until its about 2 years old and after it has had it’s hips x-rayed for soundness but it can start on the Ring Sport Obedience and Tracking before then.
The Schutzhund Instructors will evaluate your dog’s temperment and ability for this type of skillset.
Like I said, the people who do this PROPERLY are NOT cruel to the animals!!!
I have known Policemen with G.S. K-9 Unit Police Dogs who took their dogs to work and then brought them home to be with the family (including younger children) and no one was every injured.
Your husband must become a strong and fair packleader — otherwise a poorly tempermented and trained dog with an unrespected packleader is like a loaded gun in the hands of a 3 year old!!!
Wishing you much success!!!
