Dog acts wierdly around pool.

[LiquidOC]

He doesn't really "mouth" your hand if you stick it on the side of the pool, he bites it. When we have non-family members over to use the pool, he stays inside because he will growl and "attack" (don't have a better word for it) you when you try to get in the pool. But I will try the two-person mode where he's on the leash, only problem is that the pool is closing on Sept 10th, should I even worry about it this year, or wait until next year to start? We are getting a GSD in November, so I don't know how these things are going to go. Thanks!

[Karen]

Absolutely start it now, and reinforce it every day until the pool closes. Has this pup ever done obedience training with you?

[LiquidOC]

No, unfortunately, he is a spoiled little "mama's" boy that doesn't really get any obediance training at all. I'm hoping that we can correct this before the GSD gets here, as she will pick up on all of his bad habits and we really don't want that.

[Giselle]

Good behavior starts with a solid foundation. I have a small dog, so I understand the impulse to "baby" the dog but I HIGHLY discourage this. No more being "mama's boy"!

- Enforce NILIF: k9deb.com/nilif.htm
- Practice basic obedience daily and practice in distractive places as he understands the commands better.
- Don't know how much you exercise him, but a bit more exercise can't hurt (just don't overdo it)
- Pay particular attention to the commands "stay" and "focus". These two commands are invaluable to dogs who need to learn how to calm down. If you or your dog are having trouble with these commands, find a trainer to help you.

GSDs are powerful, intelligent dogs. They easily overtake their novice owners. I'd highly suggest bringing your GSD to obedience classes and continue to train and socialize the dog throughout his/her life.

[LiquidOC]

The GSD will be going to obediance classes with myself and my son (12) so she has a strong foundation, and I will try and get all that other stuff to work before she gets here (should be around thanksgiving! ) Thanks for all your help!

[Karen]

Oh, good! Let us know how it goes!

[Daisy and Delilah]

I'm not sure if anyone already said this, but, have you had him since he was a puppy? Did he have a previous owner that possibly abused him by throwing him in a pool? Your description sounds like my girls around the vacuum cleaner. Could it be just sheer fright?