Dutch Shepherd Forum

I just recently adopted a 3 month old Dutch shepherd mix. I'm trying to decide between the names Archer, Bay, and Sam. Which one do you guys like the most?

I need help because he keeps biting me. I know that he's teething, but it seems like he prefers to bite me over his toys! He is only playing though, it just hurts!

Also, when we go on walks he stops to lay down every couple blocks or so. I doubt that he's tired because when we're in the house or the yard he has energy for days.

I'm taking him to training classes next month, but meanwhile, what are some tricks to teach him? I'm so impressed with how fast he catches on to things!

What are some fun ways to exercise him physically and mentally?

I've attached some pictures!

Redirection!

You must have something that it is okay for him to bite on-hand and ready to go at all times. When he starts to bite, or shows signs that he's going to bite, offer up the thing.

Additionally, it's been recommended several times by other DS owners that until he can be trusted, he should be on a leash at all times - even in the house.

Welcome to the wonderful world of DS - BTW: 1 month before training?

Thank you!

Yep, one month. I know it's a long time, but the trainer I'm hiring, and there are no time slots open this month ): I may have to find a temporary trainer to help us until next month.

Hire someone that comes to your home and works with you one on one... this is how I do my pet dogs... the dogs trained with you one on one in the dogs environment... I'm not a fan of classes

"Nice doggy." Say that, they'll stop biting

In all seriousness. Great looking dog, thanks for the pics. Best of luck, establish rules now. If he gets away with it now, it's much harder to redirect him later

i second the in home trainer . With this breed, you need a trainer who really knows their stuff. I always advise my clients to have a leash on the dog for the first few months no matter how old. This way you can get to them before something happens or just as it starts. Keep your hands where he cant get them and when he wants them, make sure you have another toy to give him.

Good luck with the training. I have read that it's best to keep puppy on the leash with you. I also use an exercise pen in the house so my pup can be off leash. I bought a lot of Kong puppy toys for puppy to chew on. I keep at least two by me for redirection. We keep all words positive. We don't use "no", hitting, or loud sounds. We have our puppy chase her ball a few times before it's time for her to rest. Ours is only 8 weeks so yours might more exercise then one as young as mine. I am no where near an excerpt I. This. Just trying to help.