Dutch Shepherd Forum

Hi!
My name is Amanda and I am a new dog mom to a beautiful 11 week old dutch/ german shepherd mix! My boyfriend has owned German Shepherds his whole life so now we are learning the dutch side of things.

When we brought Bailey home she was very timid. We thought that it was just new surroundings, but have found she is still timid in new situations and new people. Will this get better in time? Is this common in these breeds or just her personality? We have already started to socialize her with people and other dogs in hopes that it will bring her out of her shell.

Another thing I wasn't use to (and maybe it is just her personality) is that she is not a cuddler...lol she is content with sitting across the room from me. Even though she is not a cuddler she is always at my boyfriend or my side following us around the house.

Bailey is so smart! She has picked up on tricks so fast! I love watching her learn!

If anyone has any advice for this new dog mom please let me know! Thanks in advance!

My boy was quite timid at first too. He can still be apprehensive about certain things, but gets over it pretty quickly now. Just keep exposing her to all sorts of situations and be encouraging about it, but don’t pander to behaviors like cowering behind you. Just take it slow so that hopefully doesn’t happen (aka stay below threshold). That’s at least what I did, and he has become quite confident!

For the cuddling, it just depends on the dog but I would say this breed isn’t going to be quite as cuddly as a Maltese would be, for example. I think some of that comes with age too My trainer’s didn’t even entertain the idea of giving a cuddle out until a year old. My boy is snuggly in the morning but that’s it lol!

Congrats on the new cutie!

Welcome to the forum.

What a gorgeous puppy. At 11 weeks, she's still trying to figure everything out, so make sure there's nothing but positive interaction all the way around.

Thanks everyone!

I always cuddle but some do not like it. Sadie likes to be pet but not to snuggle, that is what my basset hound is for.

Welcome! Cute pupper!