Just seeking info...

[rottie luvr]

We are the proud owners of a 4 month old male rottie. He has recently completed his beginning obedience classes and is now starting advanced obedience. He really enjoys it when we work with him and he seems to love a challenge. He is very intelligent and loves to please. We would like some information on Schutzhund training. I know we have lots of time before he is old enough to begin training, but I just wanted to get as much info as possible. We live in Lincoln,NE and would appreciate any info on local clubs and/or upcoming shows in our area. Thanks

[rottypiper]

Actually now is the time to begin training and you are already on your way by the sounds of it. Schutzhund has 3 categories to it Obedience, Tracking and Protection. You've already started OB and now is a good time to start the other 2. Pick up a book on schutzhund and familiarize yourself with it. I have a good book called Schutzhund:Theory and Training Methods by Hilliard and Barwig. It has some good beginner stuff in there and maybe some of the more experienced guys on this board could recommend other books. As for protection you can start by playing tug of war with your dog and always let him win. Be gentle at this stage of his life as he may be teething. I won't mention anymore about protection as I feel it should be conducted by an experienced person or with a club.
I can't help you with trials or clubs in your area but ask around I'm sure they are there.

[1StRott]

I noticed at many obedience classes instructors allow handlers to use force in training(choke chain). For schuzthund you need a dog that is motivated to do the work, all phases. Which basically will be imprited without a choke chain, but rather food or ball. A young pup should be motivated to have fun and be a puppy. All training should be a game, fun and very short, and limited. This includes tracking, and bite imprinting. Use a ball on a string to enhance his/her prey drive also a rag on string. The book recommended is a excellent point to begin. In it you will find theories behind each method. Good luck in your training

[Carol Burke]

Excellent book. And motivational training methods are the way to go until he absolutely understands what you want, only then should you correct when he doesn't obey.

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Carol
Darrlburg Rottweilers

[This message has been edited by Carol Burke (edited July 31, 2000).]