How to Train German Shorthair Pups

An ideal hunter, the German shorthaired pointer is adept at retrieving, tracking and even killing game animals. This was their original purpose in the 1600s, and though they still excel as gundogs, they have adapted to life as family pets as well. They are energetic and affectionate, craving the attention of their humans. Though the German shorthair is friendly, its energy may be overwhelming for young children. German shorthaired pointers are not genetically inclined to major health problems and they can live up to 14 years.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
  • Dog crate
  • Dog toys
  • Bones or chews
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Instructions

    • 1

      Socialize your German shorthair while it is still a young puppy. These dogs were bred to hunt, and they can become aggressive toward smaller animals. Introduce your puppy to strangers, children, dog and other animals as early as possible. Take it as many places as possible so that it will encounter different smells, sounds and sights. Always reward your German shorthair for handling these experiences in a calm and happy manner. With proper socialization, your German shorthair's friendly nature will allow it to get along with strangers, children and even other pets in your home.

    • 2

      Give your German shorthair boundaries. For instance, don't allow it on the bed with you or forbid it from coming into the dining room during mealtimes. Rules such as these establish you as the boss of the house and prevent your German shorthaired pointer from developing dominance-related behavioral problems. Always enforce these rules consistently, or your independent dog will feel free to break them again.

    • 3

      Use treats, praise and play to reward your German shorthair for doing the right thing. German shorthaired pointers are sensitive dogs and can become fearful or resentful if they are punished or trained with negative reinforcement methods. Instead of punishing your dog for doing something wrong, recognize it for what it does right. This includes abandoning mischief when it is told. When you catch your pointer getting into trouble, interrupt it and then reward it immediately for turning its attention to you.

    • 4

      Lure your dog into basic obedience positions using treats. To teach your German shorthair to lie down, for example, hold a treat close to its nose and lower it toward the floor. When your dog begins to lower its body to follow, reward it immediately. Gradually scale back the treats as your dog learns to complete and obey the command. Never stop using praise though. German shorthairs love to please and will be eager to repeat the experience if they know they made you happy.

    • 5

      Crate your German shorthair puppy when you are away from home until it is fully house-trained. Your puppy won't like soiling its sleeping space, so if you stay away just a few hours at a time, it will avoid having an accident inside. Take your puppy outside frequently and reward it for going potty in the yard. Don't scold it if you catch it making a mess. Interrupt it and hurry outside with it. Reward it for going potty outside instead.

    • 6

      Exercise your German shorthair puppy daily. These dogs are highly energetic and they hate being bored. They are likely to make their own fun if you don't provide it, and this can lead to destructive behavior. Take your pointer pup on at least two walks a day (these walks will get longer as your pup gets older) and spend time playing with it in the yard. These dogs also enjoy swimming. Give your dog a job to do, such as hunt along with you, to keep its mind busy. Otherwise provide bones and chews to help it stimulate its mind and give it an outlet for its energy.