Welcome to the site. You've posted a really good question. Good advice posted already! I'll just add, set the rules for the dog and family now. She's going to be a good sized dog and what is cute now will not necessarily be cute when she's 65+ pounds! So, decide on what her adult rules are to be and teach her that way from the start. Be aware that in a couple of months, she'll be starting to teethe and now is the time to teach her that biting/mouthing is not acceptable. A discussion of this is posted elsewhere on the site (check "black shepherd" postings). I'm the advocate of not pulling away, but several others advocate yanking hands away and yelping. Try both ways and see what works best.

I really agree with Rachel -- teaching the kids how to treat the puppy will go a long way toward making sure she grows sweet as can be. If they don't pick on her or tease her, she should be a great companion/part of the family. Work with them and let them help you with puppy preschool lessons. Notice I didn't say classes. They would be welcome to come to most classes, but ususally one person is to handle the dog in class. Still, they can help at home and learn how to train her along with you. Really best luck -- the breeds she's a mix of are very loyal family dogs and generally good natured, so you should only have the usually doggie-child experiences. Keep us posted -- we love puppy stories right along with puppy breath.

[This message has been edited by ktreva52 (edited December 09, 2000).]