PLEASE PLEASE help!

[BrandiB]

I too have my first GSD. I got her when she was 6 weeks also. I am a little nervous about raising such a powerful dog. I am only used to poms and other little dogs. My girl (Izzy) has been amazing though. She hasnt pottied in the house at all and is going to the door to go out! She does whine at night but i expected that and she also nips a lot but that is puppy behavior from any breed. Good luck and i hope sam and your wife adapt soon!

[Heidij]

I agree with the enzyme cleaner, however the dog may not be comfortable going outside if there are other dogs and wildlife... Next time the dog poops, bag it and bring it to the spot where you want your dog to poop outaide then keep bringing the dog to the outside spot when he gets near the inside spot. It will show him where his poop goes. Another option is to train the dog to target something like a bell when he wants to go out. As far as the whining goes, young dogs have to get used to the idea that their pack isn't always together all the time. Crate training is a great idea... It also allows you to create space between you and the dog where the dog can see you and learn that space is ok. One way to train your dog to understand space is to get your wife and dog engaged in a game (tug works well) and Lear the room. Them come back. The dog will learn that 1. Mom is fun and dad leaving is a positive experience. I have train and have a good deal of knowledge. Feel free to email me aric87@comcast.net with any other questions

As far as 6 weeks being to early... Yes and no. The 6 week is an important social period for the dog to learn boundaries... So you will have to def. keep the play biting in check. Very very important for the dog to understand. Other than that, you shouldn't have any issues. Many dog team handlers get their puppies at 7 weeks because it creates a better bond to the handler. Keep in mind that... Unlike small dogs a confident gsd will chew on anything if it thinks it is a game. Teaching your dog to tug is very much encouraged. Look into Michael Ellis' videos on tug. Rentable on bowwowflix.com much cheaper than purchasing, as you said money was tight. Tug will help you teach a few things... The rules of biting, and letting go. It will allow you to bond with your dog, and it will allow you to train the dog with a play reward on your terms. Also, it will help you socializing. Again, feel free to send any specific questions.