New Service Dog in Training.....

[BigChiefServiceDog]

Hello to the forum~ just a few lines to introduce myself and my 15 week old pup, Chief who is beginning his journey to become my seizure alert and mobility assist dog. We've got a long way to go but I'm confident that we are both up to the task.

I'm not new to the GSD life as I was raised with this marvelous breed and for many years have been determined to share my life with another. It's been about 20 years since but finally, Chief has entered my life and I couldn't be happier! He is truly a welcome addition to our pack! We presently live with a Boston Terrier Service Dog named Jack. Unfortunately, due to illness Jack is no longer able to perform his duties and also his size doesn't allow for assisting with my progressing mobility needs. We also live with another Boston named Lola who seems to think she is Chief's mom. LOL It's hilarious to see the two of them wrestle! She is about 15 pounds to his 30 pounds (and rapidly growing!)! LOL

Prior to my disabilities I worked as a dog trainer and have decided to utilize what I know to my advantage and not only "owner-train" my own Service dog but to also help others with disabilities by advising and advocating for their rights as well, with first Jack and now Chief at my side.

Well, that about covers it presently with the exception of saying that I'm looking forward to learning, sharing, making new friends and having lots of fun here on the GSD forums! Please check out the album I made here depicting Chief's journey. I'm looking forward to hearing from you and hope you enjoy the pictures!

[Debbieg]

Welcome Lee and Chief! This forum has a wonderful and diverse group with a lot of knowledge which I am sure you will add to.

I am interested in GSD being service dogs, the choosing of the right dogs and the training that goes into it.

Where did you get Chief and why did you choose him? We love pictures here!

[BigChiefServiceDog]

Thanks Debbieg

I knew I was going to go with a GSD because I've always been very comfortable with the breed and I felt that it was the best choice for my personal needs.

There is a breeder in my area whom I've known of for some time and have gotten to know many of his dogs over the years and one of my best friends now has one as a Service Dog as well. He is a natural for diabetic alert. Another friend was matched with a beautiful GSD girl for her son who lives with autism.

This breeder has become a very good friend of mine as well over the last few months and I often go to his kennel to help out with his pups.

He knew that I was going to be looking for a new dog soon as my Jack is retired so after watching me work with his dogs over a period of weeks, he matched me with a pup who showed interest anytime I happened to have a seizure while there. Chief reacted every single time by barking, whining. I plan on working with that behavior. My Jack is a natural alerter (alerts before a seizure) and only time will tell if Chief will have this ability. We have a long way to go yet before any of this can be determined. Right now we are just concentrating on socialization, our bond, basic obedience and being a puppy.