Coming Home to GSDsss
 

My first dog as a child was a GSD. My subsequent dogs as an adult were GSDs until, for some unknown reason, I decided to try other large breeds. 20 yrs later, I am glad to say I am back to owning and loving a German Shepherd. I bought him from a great breeder back in May 2012. Cooper is now 11 months old, healthy, intelligent and has so much ball drive I wish I could harness it.

What I find unusual about him is his self confidence and independence. He wants to be outside most the time only "knocking on the door" to ask if I'd like to throw the ball some more. I'm hoping he will develop more of a bond with me as part of the reason getting him was protection and companionship. I've taken him to 4 classes and he loves to learn. We took a break during the winter, but I'm signed back up for advanced classes in the Spring.

Does anyone else have an "independent" youngster? Also, he hasn't shown one iota of protectiveness, but I've read this may not happen for another 6 months.

Thanks for any comments.

Gus isn't necessarily a cuddle bug, and loves to be outside too. Do some fun training to help develop a bond. If he likes to be outside, be outside with him. Go for hikes and stuff of the sort!

Welcome from the western side of the state :)

What kind of classes have you taken him to? Sounds like they must be a kind of fastmoving ones if you are ready for "advanced' ones after only 4 classes?