Grooming and Training Tips
Grooming Tips
Keeping Your German Shepherd Looking and Feeling Their Best
German Shepherds are known for their beautiful double coats, expressive faces, and strong, athletic builds. Regular grooming not only keeps them looking great—it also supports their health, comfort, and bond with you.
1. Brushing
- Frequency: Brush 2–3 times per week, daily during shedding seasons (spring and fall).
- Tools: Use a slicker brush, undercoat rake, or a de-shedding tool.
- Why it matters: Regular brushing removes loose hair, reduces shedding, and prevents mats—especially in long-coated GSDs.
2. Bathing
- How often: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed (more often if dirty or smelly).
- Shampoo: Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo—never human products.
- Tips: Rinse thoroughly and dry completely to avoid skin irritation.
3. Nail Trimming
- Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks.
- Signs they're too long: Clicking on floors or curling under.
- Tip: If you’re unsure, ask your vet or groomer to show you how.
4. Ear Care
- Check weekly for dirt, wax, or odor.
- Clean gently with a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton ball—never insert anything deep into the ear canal.
- Watch for: Redness, discharge, or head shaking (signs of infection).
5. Dental Hygiene
- Brush teeth 2–3 times per week using dog-safe toothpaste.
- Offer dental chews or toys to help reduce plaque.
- Schedule annual cleanings with your vet if needed.
6. Eye & Coat Checks
- Wipe eyes gently with a damp cloth if discharge appears.
- Check coat for ticks, fleas, or skin issues during grooming sessions.
7. Seasonal Shedding
- German Shepherds “blow coat” twice a year—expect heavy shedding.
- Increase brushing and consider a professional de-shedding treatment during these times.
Grooming = Bonding
Grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s a chance to bond with your dog, check for health issues, and build trust. Start early and make it a positive experience with treats and praise.
Training Tips
Raising a Well-Behaved German Shepherd Starts Here
German Shepherds are one of the most intelligent and trainable breeds—but they thrive with structure, consistency, and early guidance. Whether you're raising a family companion or preparing for advanced work, these tips will help you build a strong foundation.
1. Start Early, Stay Consistent
- Begin training the moment your puppy comes home.
- Use the same words and cues for commands.
- Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) and positive.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
- Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or play.
- Avoid harsh corrections—redirect instead.
- Mark desired behaviors with a clicker or a consistent word like “yes!”
3. Socialize, Socialize, Socialize
- Expose your puppy to new people, places, sounds, and surfaces.
- Keep experiences positive and gradual.
- Socialization builds confidence and prevents fear-based behaviors.
4. Teach the Basics First
Focus on essential commands:
- Sit
- Down
- Come
- Stay
- Leave it
- Heel (loose leash walking)
Mastering these creates a strong foundation for advanced training.
5. Crate Train for Structure
- Crates help with housebreaking and provide a safe space.
- Never use the crate as punishment.
- Feed meals and give treats in the crate to build positive associations.
6. Prevent Bad Habits Early
- Don’t allow behaviors now that you won’t want later (e.g., jumping, mouthing).
- Redirect unwanted behavior and reward calm, polite alternatives.
7. Train the Dog in Front of You
- Every dog is different—even within the same breed.
- Adjust your approach based on your dog’s energy, confidence, and learning style.
8. Enroll in a Puppy Class or Private Training
- Early guidance from a professional sets you up for success.
- We offer in-house training tailored to your goals—ask us how to get started!
🐾🐾🐾PREP LIST🐾🐾🐾
The following should be accomplished prior to the big day.
1. Purchase of dog food (Purina Pro Plan - under one chicken with chewy bits and Royal Canin “Starter Mother and Babydog” or”Puppy” canned food.
2. Order your NuVet Plus and NuJoint supplements.
3. Purchase of any supplies you may need from supply list
4. Arrange a travel crate or additional person to hold puppy on trip home.
5. Final balance payment: Cash Only
❤️❤️Puppy Supply List❤️❤️
- Extra Large/ Large Plastic Crate
- Two Stainless Steel Bowls
- 6 foot leather leash
- Medium (adjustable)harness
- Medium collar (adjustable)
- Travel Supply Bag; towel, baby wet wipes, potty bags, garbage bag, extra food, bottled water, & bowl.
- Fold-up Puppy Play Pen
- Extra heavy Duty Rubber Toys(Kong)
- Training treats; use Mozzarella String Cheese or Organic Hotdogs
One more item to have on hand…. Canned pumpkin. 1/2 teaspoon of Pumpkin is used to keep stools firm during the stress of transition.
The canned Puppy food can be used to entice eating the kibble by mixing 3-4 tablespoons in with a little warm water to the kibble. Sometimes puppies get finicky when they do not have the siblings competing for the food.
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