Category: German Shepherds

German Shepherd Temperament

Posted by Dog Trainer College

After earnestly working/breeding/training German Shepherds for at least 30 years, Max von Stephantitz wrote, “I cannot remember a single shepherd dog who was not in love with children.” That is a far cry from where the breed is in America today.  Unfortunately, many GSDs cannot be trusted around children.  The reasons for this are numerous… Read more »

Major Bloodlines of the German Shepherd Dog

Posted by Dog Trainer College

There is probably more variety among the various bloodlines of the German Shepherd Dog than any other breed.  There are obvious differences in body structure and aesthetics.  But the largest difference is the temperament.  Some will disagree with the following statements and that’s ok.  The article is an attempt to give insight for those who… Read more »

Purchasing Older Pups as Working Dogs

Posted by Dog Trainer College

This article is not for folks who want/have a pet puppy.  Rather, it is directed towards those wanting a future working dog.  If that’s you, read on and save yourself some money, time, and frustration. Many people short-circuit their working dog goals before they ever get their new pup home.  Why?  They purchased a young… Read more »

The German Shepherd – Breeding is Everything

Posted by Dog Trainer College

So many things are affected by dog breeding, good or bad.  This is true with the German Shepherd and most – if not all – other breeds as well.  Since we have bred GSDs for nearly 30 years, we’ll take a look at this subject with the GSD in mind.  Much of the same can… Read more »

Confidence is a Necessity in Protection Dogs

Posted by Dog Trainer College

One of the prerequisites of a personal protection dog is confidence.  If/when this dog’s services are needed, it will be during an extremely stressful situation.  Personal assaults and home intrusions are very stressful indeed; for the victim, the aggressor, and the dog.  If dogs are to be successful in preventing or averting these types of… Read more »

Four Realistic Thoughts about Protection Dogs

Posted by Dog Trainer College

Let’s take a realistic look at owning and/or handling a personal protection dog.  Your expectations for this kind of dog should be different than the expectations you have for a pet dog.  If you can’t get past this thought pattern, you will need to hit the re-set button in your mind.  Pets and working dogs… Read more »

A Real German Shepherd Dog

Posted by Dog Trainer College

There are many creatures out there that look like a German Shepherd dog, have a certificate and pedigree that says it’s a German Shepherd Dog, but are disgusting excuses for the real thing. The most important aspect of a German Shepherd is his/her temperament.  Color and pedigree are secondary!  (Never pick a GSD because “he’s… Read more »

Responsible Dog Breeders

Posted by Dog Trainer College

Dog breeders can make a world of difference!  Both responsible dog breeders and puppy mills will influence the final product of the pet:  either good or bad. Dog breeders shouldn’t be breeding for money!  The love of money will convince a breeder to let things “slide,” either in the selection of the breeding stock, the… Read more »

When Does Protection Training Begin?

Posted by Dog Trainer College

You want a protection dog, right?  So when should training begin:  8 weeks, 8 months or ???  It’s a common question. Simply, training should begin before the pup is even born.  Yes, I know, a trick answer.  But truly, if you want a solid protector, your dog’s parents should have the character traits you desire… Read more »

Tips on Preventing Hip Dysplasia

Posted by Dog Trainer College

Hip dysplasia is a concern in all breeds, but especially large breed dogs.  We have assembled a short list with some tips on preventing hip dysplasia.  Implement this article to reduce the risk and also to reduce the pain of a dog who has the disease. A good breeder will do their homework to greatly… Read more »