What can I expect of my Dutch Shepherd Mix?

[Raventhal]

My puppy will be 8 weeks on Sunday. Got him on Monday for my son who's on vacation right now. He is a Dutch Shepherd/APB mix. I got the dog without doing a lot of research on the DS side of things. I have see many pits which are either super sweet or mean depending.

So far what I noticed. I picked him because he seemed like the only calm dog in the mad house of random breed dogs I got him from. The other pup was wrestling and fighting the whole time. Mom DS has law enforcement training( at least what guy says) but was super friendly. Dad wasn't there, out of state.

Ok. Puppy has lived outside his whole life but has had two accidents since I had him. One from being in the crate too long and the other he pooped next to the chihuahua which never completely house trained despite all types of methods. Outside of that he's used the bathroom outside all the time. Seems impossible but he seems house trained. He whines to go out already for bathroom or just to play.

He hasn't bitten/nipped me but he does lick my face if I let him sit in my lap sometimes. But he bites/taste literally everything he can get his mouth on. He's curious about everything without fear even lawnmowers and weed wackers.

Do DS go through personality changes more so than other dogs? I know little about the breed except one federal K9 where I worked had one.

[centrop67]

Welcome!

I moved your post to the new member announcement section. Please take some time to add a signature to your profile to help us identify who's who.

We need pictures.

Every dog's behavior is going to be a little unique. In general, keep in mind that working dogs like this breed are going to be harder to deal with than anything you have ever encountered.

You say you got the puppy for your son. What are the expectations? Are there any sports, agility or protection work in the future? The dog needs a job beyond daily exercise - OR it will find its own job, and you won't be happy with that.

The chihuahua may be a problem. Some of this breed has intense prey drive that might lead to issues in the future.

Depending on how much DS is in there, you may experience what we've affectionately called "crazy hour" for the first couple of years. A combination of a growing dog, raging hormones, a need for attention, and a need to test your limits will be lots of fun for you. It does end at some point, though.

Obedience (Sit, Down, Stay, Come) training is a must starting NOW. You probably should consider consultation (at least) or full training with a trainer experienced with this breed. You'll want to have the dog attached to you (or your son) by leash all the time until there is consistent obedience.

In my experience, all dogs go through a biting/nipping stage as a puppy. When you are the bitee, you must redirect this to things he is allowed to bite like balls and toys.

Please read a lot of the behavior posts on this site, and do searches for specific questions.

Again. Welcome.