The Old English Sheepdog, with its fluffy coat and endearing demeanor, is an iconic breed. Historically a drover, tasked with driving cattle and sheep, this breed has a natural herding instinct, intelligence, and a bubbling energy that needs direction. Training, thus, becomes a cornerstone in the life of an Old English Sheepdog owner. In this article, we delve into the pivotal age to start training, the behavioral challenges of delaying it, and how online dog training courses can make this process smoother for both you and your furry friend.
The Ideal Start Time for Training of an Old English Sheepdog Puppy
An Old English Sheepdog puppy is a ball of energy waiting for direction. Ideally, the introduction to training should begin as soon as the puppy is brought home, typically around the age of 8 to 10 weeks. At this young age, they are impressionable and can begin absorbing basic commands, house rules, and social behaviors.
Starting with fundamental commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “down” will not only help in day-to-day interactions but also lay the foundation for advanced training. Simultaneously, socialization is paramount. Given the breed’s size and herding instincts, early interactions with different environments, people, and animals will help mold a well-rounded and sociable adult dog.
Behavior Problems from Delayed Training of an Old English Sheepdog Puppy
Old English Sheepdogs are renowned for their boisterous nature and intelligence. A delay in training can manifest multiple behavioral issues:
- Herding Instincts: In the absence of guidance, your Sheepdog might resort to its natural instinct – herding. This can lead to them attempting to herd children, other pets, or even objects, which can be problematic in a household setting.
- Over-exuberance: Due to their high energy, an untrained Old English Sheepdog can become overly exuberant, leading to unintentional injuries, property damage, or simply overwhelming guests with their “over-friendly” nature.
- Barking Tendencies: Sheepdogs can be vocal, and if not taught to modulate their barking, you might end up with a dog that barks incessantly, be it out of boredom, alertness, or seeking attention.
- Dominance Issues: Without clear boundaries and a structured training regime, an Old English Sheepdog might develop dominance issues, making them harder to manage, especially for novice dog owners.
Benefits of Using an Online Dog Training Course for Your Old English Sheepdog Puppy
Online dog training courses, with their vast resources and structured modules, offer unique advantages, especially for breeds as energetic and intelligent as the Old English Sheepdog:
- Breed-Specific Techniques: Many online platforms cater to breed-specific training requirements. Given the unique temperament and herding instincts of the Old English Sheepdog, such targeted courses can be invaluable. They offer insights, exercises, and strategies tailored for the breed, ensuring a more effective training regime.
- Convenience and Flexibility: Online dog training courses are a boon for those with packed schedules. They allow you to train your dog at a pace suitable for both of you, ensuring that sessions can be revisited when needed and can be conducted without the constraints of fixed class timings.
The Only 2 Online Puppy Training Courses We Recommend
1. SpiritDog’s Ultimate Puppy Bundle (BEST BUDGET FRIENDLY OPTION)
This comprehensive online puppy training program, designed by experienced trainer Steffi Trott, aims to help dog owners raise a well-behaved, social, and friendly puppy. The course provides lifetime access to over 70 lessons, including videos and an exclusive eBook, with a focus on critical behaviors like biting, potty training, and chewing. Participants can learn at their own pace from home, with the ability to ask unlimited questions to professional trainers. The program promises noticeable improvements in puppy behavior with just 10 minutes of practice per day. It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, lifetime personal support, and seven bonus mini-courses covering specific issues like hyperactivity and separation anxiety.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass” (BEST OVERALL)
In addition to basic puppy training, this more comprehensive training class tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog. It’s made an a very easy to follow video format.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an Old English Sheepdog, with its vibrant personality and intelligence, thrives when introduced to structured training from an early age. This early investment of time and energy ensures that they mature into well-behaved and confident adult dogs, capable of being a loving and harmonious part of any family. And with the advent of online dog training courses, expert guidance is readily available, ensuring that the training journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible for both owner and pet.
Toledo, United States.