How to raise a dog that is well behaved and socialized?

German Shepherd male. How would I raise a dog that is completely comfortable in crowds and with strangers?

Ah. Slight problem. German Shepherds are Guard Dogs and are bred to only bond to one owner. That's why they make such great working dogs.They need lots of exercise and brain stimulation because these are extremely smart dogs. Always bare that in mind.Take him to socialization classes as a pup so he won't become aggressive to others. Also, a lot of classes are put on free for behavioural ones and you can also learn a thing or two.Get him fixed, neutered whatever, PLEASE! They are known to be a dominant dog, and when he is fixed will be less aggressive and more friendlier/easier to train.Thanks!

Spend alot of time with him and love him to death..I take my 9 month old rotti to the dog park everyday..if this is not possible than go as often as you can..they get great exercise and meet lots of people and animals there..the energy they will pick up on is good for them..the more exposure the better...any dog can be well behaved and socialized regardless of the breed..good luck..

Well first you must understand the TEMPERAMENT of your breed. This is genetic. You can influence it but it cannot be changed. Which is why you don't buy from just anyoneFrom the breed standard : "The breed has a distinct personality marked by direct and fearless, but not hostile, expression, self-confidence and a certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. The dog must be approachable, quietly standing its ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without itself making them. It is poised, but when the occasion demands, eager and alert; both fit and willing to serve in its capacity as companion, watchdog, blind leader, herding dog, or guardian, whichever the circumstances may demand. The dog must not be timid, shrinking behind its master or handler; it should not be nervous, looking about or upward with anxious expression or showing nervous reactions, such as tucking of tail, to strange sounds or sights. Lack of confidence under any surroundings is not typical of good character."Beyond that, it comes down to training. Which means you finish what hopefully your breeder already started - your dog is not only exposed to a variety of people but also sights and sounds. Best bet contact your local GSD club and see what classes/trainers they recommend for obedience training.If you want a dog who's gonna love everyone on sight - wrong breed.

Train and socialize the dog. Sounds easy in print but in reality it takes a lot of work. First you have to buy a puppy that has a sound temperament. Then you take that wonderful puppy and start training it the first day that you bring it home. You use positive training techniques involving, food, toys, and praise. As the puppy becomes older, you start expecting more as far as proper behavior is concerned. Understandable consequences are introduced into your training.You start taking this puppy places. At first these will need to be dog clean areas. Dog clean places are friends homes who have nice vaccinated dogs, in areas where there are no stray dogs running around. After his vaccinations have been completed then you start taking this pup everywhere. Let him see the world. While you are seeing the world with this pup, remember to take your training with you. This means that you expect your dog to listen to you while in public and not just at home.

Training from the professionals

An essential is to have the puppy at 7-8 weeks and immediately get it out around people, traffic, noise, anything you want it to behave around. The one exception is strange dogs that might have diseases. The period between 6-12 weeks is a dangerous time. One sniff where a sick dog relieved itself in the last 6 months can bring on parvo or another life threatening disease. Fail to expose it to strangers, including men, women, children, noise, etc. and you could end up with a misfit you can't take out in public. They also need continuing contact with other dogs, but it must be limited to ones you know are getting good care. The dangers of infection continue after 12 weeks, but the best time for socialization is ending. http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/oct08/081001c.asphttp://www.apdt.com/veterinary/assets/pdf/Silvani_JF05.pdfhttp://www.akc.org/enewsletter/akc_breeder/2008/winter/puppy.cfm