If you are considering becoming an owner of a German Shepherd Dog (GSD), then you need to consider the commitment to training in order that you have happy, well behaved German Shepherd dog that you can take out safely in public. If you are a fortunate owner of a BallyRock German Shepherd Dog, you will see in our contracts that we insist that our dogs be trained, not just through puppy classes but in advanced adult classes as well.  BallyRock does pay up to $250 for the classes too!*  It's a reward to our German Shepherd dog owners, its a reward to the dogs too.  This provides structure in the family between both owner and dog.

If you haven't previously owned one of these dogs then please do not take the subject of training at all lightly. Being responsible breeders we know the importance of training and it's impact on livelihood of this wonderful, intelligent breed. We do ensure that all our potential owners, and owners of our dogs understand the need for proper training.

As puppies and adolescents, German Shepherds can be very boisterous and can easily knock over children or elderly relatives, especially if you do not discourage the dog from jumping up when excited. A bored GSD can be very destructive and if left alone will trash your house and contents with ease using their big teeth and claws. Unfortunately these dogs don't really mature until they are about 3 years old so you are in for the long haul to get through the puppy and adolescent stage.  During the 1 - 2 year old stage you will begin to notice the "focal look" (this is where your German Shepherd is constantly looking to you for guidance).  When the "focal look" becomes habitual you will know that your German Shepherd has matured MENTALLY!

The German Shepherd needs to be well socialized from an early age and needs plenty of exposure to people and other dogs so that they do not develop aggressive tendencies as they mature.  Socialization mean just that social.  This does not mean going out for a walk and just sniffle the odd dog or two on his stroll.  It mean going to dog parks, social events such as a dog show, competitive events such as fly ball, etc.

Joining a dog training class from an early age is a good idea and most clubs will accept dogs into the puppy classes from about 4 months onwards. This should be good fun for your puppy and allows him to play and to socialize but it also serves the purpose of teaching him or her what is acceptable and what is not. Remember this .... BLACK or WHITE .... NO GREY! This will prove invaluable grounding for your German Shepherd training.

When choosing a dog training class do check out a few first as not all classes make German Shepherds welcome and if any club asks that you muzzle your dog, please give it a miss and move on and find another club. No reputable dog training class would require a dog to be muzzled. If your dog is aggressive towards other dogs there are better ways of controlling the dog safely such as by using a Canny Collar which is a simple effective head collar similar to those used on horses.

The earlier you start training and socialization the better, as GSD's often develop a tendency to be aggressive towards other dogs and also towards strangers and they can become very protective towards their owners and property.