German Shepherd owners who take the time to socialize and train their dogs will tell you they could not be happier with their dogs. Well-trained German Shepherds are loyal, obedient, and highly intelligent. This breed is among the most commonly used as guides for the blind, rescue dogs, and police dogs. They have even been known to help children with their math lessons. Okay, so maybe that should be left to parents and tutors, but German Shepherds can be trained for just about everything else.

Importance of Socialization in German Shepherd Training
German Shepherd training is not much different from training any other breed of dog. However, the size and innate protectiveness of the breed does make socialization and training a little bit more important. Having a small Lhasa Apso who occasionally snips at people and other dogs is one thing--although it is still unacceptable. But a German Shepherd who does the same is major problem!

Socializing your puppy means introducing him to friendly dogs, children, and people at a very young age. Fear and protectiveness are major reasons older dogs become aggressive. A German Shepherd, and any other breed of dog, should know that people and other dogs make better friends than enemies. Signing up for puppy kindergarten classes is a great way to socialize your German Shepherd.

By acquainting your dog with new experiences and other living beings, he becomes aware of this. As he grows older, he will not see other people or dogs as a threat to either him or you. Innately protective dogs will always bark as they see strangers and other dogs approaching the house, and that is a good thing. Once you invite someone inside, however, your well-socialized German Shepherd is more likely to greet the person with a wagging tail and sloppy kisses than with a scowl.