What to expect at this age?

[tobym333]

Hey, my WGSD is 18 weeks. He is very friendly and has learned most of the basic commands. This is my first GSD and I was curious can someone point me to the right place here on what to expect from him at certain ages... I.E. when does he start getting protective, or aggressive, or growth spurt ( typically ) pretty much everything. I have no clue what to expect and when. Thanks everyone.

[zyppi]

Welcome and congratulations.

Others may have your answer, but one never quits learning about this breed.

Protective? Differing dog to differing degrees, but your boy will need to mature ( around two) for you to see.

Sounds like you're on a good path with him though.

[Mac's Mom]

I assume thats your little guy in your avatar. He is adorable!!

Mac was my first puppy and first german shepherd so I know how you feel . I do suggest scrolling through the puppy section to learn about their behavior, what other people have experienced and how they dealt with "issues". I quote the word issues because a lot of the behavior is perfectly normal eventhough it can be very annoying and problematic if not addressed

With that being said, the thing I remember most about Mac when he was Toby's age is how mouthy he was. He was constantly biting and some people misinterupted that as aggression when it was simply teething. You'll find lots of great advice on dealing with that.

[Stosh]

I wouldn't even think about the protective thing for now. You have to remember that it will take years for him to mature even though he's growing like a weed. It's hard to think of a giant 12 or even 18 mo old as a puppy because they look like adults but they're not. Even though they're incredibly smart, it takes time for the instincts to develop. So enjoy puppyhood! Even all the biting and goofiness

[tobym333]

Thanks for the input. He is nipping at my hands a lot here lately. I thought he learned early that I didnt like it. I replaced toys in his mouth and showed him what was acceptable to bite on. He sits on command and sits every time I stop when we walk. He still tries to lead every time, without exception. Fetch is few and far between, he doesnt take off with the ball just brings it back half way two times then seems uninterested. I think cause its the distractions out side. He seems very mature for his age and wants to learn new things. I dont think im going to be able to teach him the things i want. Im probably going to need a trainer. What age is best to get him trained by a professional ?

[doggiedad]

did you enroll in a puppy class? did you find a trainer (private
lessons) or an OB class? are you socializing? forget about the
protection. some are more protective than others. if you want
a pp dog or a dog that protective in certain situations find a trainer.
the protection stuff comes later. first make sure your dog
is well trained and highly socialized before any protection training.
good luck with the new pup.

[tobym333]

Thanks. I agree the protection will for sure come later. I was just curious. I have been doing the training ( basic commands ) on my own, but I found a trainer in the area for $ 1400.00. for a 21 day board and training class. is that a fair price ?

[Stosh]

Not a fan of the boarding/training. Personally, I wouldn't want to have someone 'train' without me being present at all times. You'd be much better off going to a class or having an in-home trainer.

[tobym333]

Great point!

[doggiedad]

>>>>1. you can't be sure protection will come later (naturally).
you can train for it

>>>>2. i wouldn't send my dog away for training. my dogs puppy class cost $90.00 for 6 weeks. the trainer was always available for counselling at no charge. his private trainer cost $35.00 a half our. her classes went 45 minutes normally at no extra charge.

QUOTE=tobym333;2393267]Thanks.

>>>>1. I agree the protection will for sure come later.

>>>>2 . found a trainer in the area for $ 1400.00. for a 21 day board and training class. [/QUOTE]