Training Tips

If you don’t give your dog a job, he will become self-employed.

Disclaimer:

The GSRNE ”Ask a Trainer” feature and all information contained within is meant to be entertaining and informative. GSRNE accepts no responsibility for any damage or injury to any person, place, or thing caused by the use of information within our publications. We accept no responsibility for any liability as any cause of action, claims, suits or demands of any kind that arises as a result of such damage or injury.

We recommend personally consulting a professional dog trainer prior to applying any methods or advice offered within our publications.

The advise, use, methods and opinions expressed by the columnists do not necessarily reflect those of GSRNE.

The GSRNE creators and columnists are responsible for their own words, but they can *not* assume responsibility for how you may misunderstand and/or misuse any suggestions given in this group. You are responsible for your own dog and how it is treated. Do not do anything to your dog, which you believe will be harmful.

The trainers here are experienced and dedicated. No one would intentionally give unsound training suggestions. But we are not there in person to see your dog and to observe its behaviors and reactions. We are not able to meet all family members to learn how they interact and respond to your dog. We are not there to make certain that you fully understand what we’re writing. For those reasons, we cannot tailor our responses to particular needs and requirements that are individual to your dog. Instead, we write here in somewhat general terms, giving suggestions and ideas, but we do not give advice.

Any information on GSRNE website or publications does not substitute for sound advice and recommendations from an experienced dog training professional who has evaluated your dog in person.

Praising Your Dog

There is a right way to praise your dog. When your dog has performed a command or action that you think should be rewarded, praise him. Now, if you were to jump up and down excitedly clapping your hands and using a high pitched squeaky voice, your dog is going to get really excited and move off (most likely up at you or away from the crazy squeaky human). Your dog starts zooming around causing havoc because he was just given a signal to do this. The correct way to praise a dog is with a so… [more]

Potty Training

A rolled up newspaper can be an effective training tool when used properly. For instance, use the rolled-up newspaper if your dog chews up something inappropriate or has a housebreaking accident. Bring the dog over to the destroyed object (or mess), then take the rolled-up newspaper… and hit yourself over the head as you repeat the phrase, “I FORGOT TO WATCH MY DOG, I FORGOT TO WATCH MY DOG!”… [more]

The Various Types of Trainers

We’ve all heard the old adage “Train, don’t complain”. When that cute bundle of joy arrives, there are the best of intentions, and a rush to “train the dog”, before he gets too old to train. Better to remember “training never ends…” Most adult GSDs are loyal, active, loving, protective and intelligent. Without proper guidance and training, many GSDs can be rambunctious and exhausting to live with. It is up to you to guide your dog to suit your lifestyle and that of your family… [more]

What to look for when lining up obedience training for your dog.

Group training is an inexpensive way to teach the basics. This is the foundation for a dog’s learning. Many dogs go beyond this to work with agility trials, advanced training skills, Canine Good Citizenship (CGC), therapy dogs and other titles. One-on-one or private lessons teaches in isolation and does not allow for the dog to be socialized. We would recommend this only if you’re dealing with specific associated behaviors. Socialization is the major advantage as the dog must get use … [more]

Barking At the Door

Most dogs will bark when people come to the front door. Click here for the Humane Society's tip sheet on how to control this behavior. And this video will show you step by step how to teach your dog to give you a quick alert bark followed by quiet, calm behavior. … [more]

Rushing the Door When Company Comes Over

Question: “How can I get my four dogs to stop rushing the door when someone comes to my house? I can get them one at a time to do it. But the unexpected guest gets everything from kissed to sniffed and practically violated! I have tried to have them sit until the company comes in, but all it takes is one of the dogs to jump towards the guest and (pardon) all heck breaks loose!” HELP! – Wendy Answer: This is an excellent question.What I would work on, since you can successfully do this … [more]

Excitement barking in the car

Question: “My dog gets excited and barks in the car. She cues into direction signals and the car slowing down in certain areas. She has been doing this for several years. What can I do to stop this behavior?” GSRNE Member Answer: “As soon as your dog hops in the car, she’s excited and happy about her new adventure. She starts out with her signature whining. It escalates as triggers happen, such as a particular stop sign or a left-hand directional being turned on. She’s starting to w… [more]

Leash Training

Leashes: There are many ways to handle a leash. Most times, you will see people place the loop of the leash around their wrists. This can lead to injury. Please note the proper way to handle a leash and be able to handle your dog safely. Ask The Trainer: Leash Training by Mary Farren caninetrainer1@gmail.com There are many ways to handle a leash. Most times, you will see people place the loop of the leash around their wrists. This can lead to injury. Please note the proper… [more]

Training Links

Training If you don't give your dog a job, he will become self-employed. Praising Your Dog by Mary Farren, GSRNE Foster Home Training Director There is a right way to praise your dog. When your dog has performed a command or action that you think should be rewarded, praise him. Now, if you were to jump up and down excitedly clapping your hands and using a high pitched squeaky voice, your dog is going to get really excited and move off (most likely up at you or away fr… [more]

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

Halloween can be a festive and fun time of year for children and families, but for family pets, it can be a stressful and even dangerous time of year.GSRNE offers pet owners some common sense tips to help keep your pets safe during this time of year. Don't leave your pet out in the yard on Halloween. There are plenty of stories of vicious pranksters who have teased, injured, stolen, even killed pets on this night. Walk the dog early on Halloween night and hold the leash firmly. Dogs d… [more]