Most important thing(s) you have learned here

[fosswd@live.com]

I have learned so much since finding this discussion board 2 weeks ago.

The most important thing I learned was con's of neutering. I already had his appointment made and cancelled it as soon as I started reading about the pro's and con's. Hubby and I discussed it and decided to wait until he's older. I would have hated to have read all this after he was done. I'm not saying it's a terrible thing to do, but for us there was no rush and I'd rather let his hormones do their thing.

I also learned that there were much better dog foods out there, for the price I was paying. I didn't know much about what should and shouldn't be in dog food. I think a lot of us assume that if it costs a lot it must be good. I've now read up on it and understand it better. I'm also considering switching to raw. Learned about that here too!

I've also learned the signs of Bloat. My sister's dog (Collie) died of this. The vet told her it was "twisted stomach" and after reading about it here, I was able to tell her what it was actually called. I also told her what to look out for with the dog she has now. I have also educated my kids who all have dogs at risk for this.

There's lots of other small things but these are the things I'm most happy I've learned.

[littledmc17]

I have learned a lot of things here too.
Better food, what to do when my graceful dog hurts himself and for advice in general

But most of all I have made some GREAT Friendships on this board,
and hopefully continue to do so!
I look forward to meeting up with them and also being there for them when they need solmeone to talk to and they are there for me too when I need them.

All in All this is a great website and I am so happy I found it over a year ago!!!

[Lauri & The Gang]

Not something I learned but still very important, I found Mauser through this board. And I was able to get Sasha out of a shelter in Alabama and here to us by way of this board.

[weber1b]

It would be hard to single out any one thing. I have gotten wonderful advise, some from posts I have made, and others from just reading everyday the information that comes across. I also got Max due to this board so that would be a big thing as well.

I just find that this board has taken me deeper into the breed and further cemented us as GSD only people. While we recognize there are many wonderful breeds, it's GSD's for us forever.

[scannergirl]

I learned about the different types of GSD's, I learned about what separates a good breeder from a not so good one and why it's SO important to buy a puppy from a good one. Part of that is knowing how good breeders evaluate their breeding stock to make sure they are minimizing the chance of physical or temperment problems in their puppies. I learned about temperment and did not understand how vital genetics is in temperment, but also socialization, started early and continuing.
I learned that there are amazing dogs in rescues that need forever homes. I learned that there are people out there who spend their time and money saving these beautiful dogs.

[Martie]

Originally Posted By: Weber1bIt would be hard to single out any one thing. I have gotten wonderful advise, some from posts I have made, and others from just reading everyday the information that comes across.

Ditto here. I also have so appreciated the support with Luther and access to so many different opinions on many subjects - also referrals to many great websites with even more. Although I do not show and so technically don't "need" the information, I have really enjoyed learning so much (and continuing to do so) about GSD conformation from the critique section.

Thank you all!

[aubie]

I've learned so much!

RAW feeding bones, food choices, what exercises are good for a developing pup...the LEAVE IT command, training tips and so much more.

Plus, there are some awesome people around here!

[Doc]

I have learned:

1. People in here love their dog(s).
2. People in here have very strong opinions and are, at times, closed minded.
3. The Moderator will warn you when you step out of line.
4. Don't engage in a discussion about the Breed Standard if you would like to challenge it.
5. Many people do not know the historical aspects of the breed and the breeding practices of the founding fathers.
6. Some do not value a dog that is "off Standard".
7. We have a long road in front of us if we are to ever return to the concept of 1 German shepherd that excels in working (herding), protection, conformation, and obedeance.

[Mary Jane]

<span style='font-size: 20pt'><span style="color: #FF0000">BLOAT</span></span>

It is so fast, often deadly, relatively common; the risk can be reduced but not altogether eliminated. So, among other preventive measures, I keep GasX and check its expiration date

In addition to that, I have enjoyed reading about different training styles and how they are suited to dogs of different temperaments.

I have also learned about a range of opinions on all kinds of things I would never have encountered otherwise.

Mary Jane

[Caledon]

I've learned that it is very important to make sure that you dog is well socialized and trained, not just for your family's sake, but the the reputation of the breed.

I've learned that there are many different methods to reach the end goal, and not every method works for every dog.

I've learned prong collars are not the evil toture device that I once thought they were.

I've learned clicker training is great!

I've learned that there are a lot of members on this board that go out of their way to educate, inform, advise others about the GSD, training methods, behaviour problems, how to's, equipment ... and the list goes on.