Dare is learning very quickly. She has learned the difference between “sit” and “platz” (I prefer the German for her for that command), and the difference between the markers “yes” (you did the right thing!) and “good” (keep doing what you’re doing, like remaining in a sit or down position). She also has a good enough puppy recall that I can call her off the cat, which is her favorite playmate.
She has tons of ball drive for a puppy. She is already fetching toys and bringing them back to hand, which is amazing considering how many golden retrievers I know that have no natural or play retrieve to speak of.
I really enjoy training this breed. I find them far easier than any gun dog.
She is also learning valuable lessons from other dogs. If she gets rowdy playing with the whippets and runs over sleeping Erika, Erika will correct the puppy for her rudeness. She has acute awareness of other dogs’ body language. She respects the elder dogs, but she also enjoys playing with them.
She has a genetically sound temperament, but she is getting the upbringing she truly deserves to become a super dog. I cannot be prouder of this little pup.
I’m glad. You deserve a chance to have a GSD puppy to raise and just really have fun with. When you are learning as much from the puppy as she is from you. it’s a great relationship. Partners for life :) .