A Head Start on Training
You already know the importance of beginning training with your shepherd as soon as possible. What you might not know is that early puppy training classes fill up very quickly. Unless you reserve a space before you bring your puppy home, you may find that you can't get into a class for months.
Signing up for training early will benefit both you and your shepherd.
Be sure you scout out the training classes in your area. Choose one that supports a positive, reward-based training program and that does not use training or choke collars on puppies. Make a deposit to hold a spot in an appropriate, upcoming session, and mark the dates and times on your calendar.
Your veterinarian will advise you not to put your puppy in contact with lots of other dogs until you've completed the full series of puppy vaccinations. These vaccinations should be administered when the puppy is between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. Ask your veterinarian when she feels your puppy can begin group lessons, as the relative danger of viruses can vary from region to region.
An adopted adult dog should begin training immediately. He won't be able to attend an early puppy class, but he should be enrolled in a beginning obedience class. You may find that your shepherd knows all of his commands and breezes through this class. That's fine; the experience is building his trust in you, as well as his self confidence. This also presents an opportunity for you to reward his good behavior and teach him what you expect of him on a daily basis.
