It is hardly possible to overestimate the assistance provided in everyday life our four-legged friends - service dogs. They are used in guard, patrol, and search services in all countries of the world. Without them, it is difficult to imagine the protection of housing and important facilities. Service dogs are the number one guide for blind people.

The role of service dogs in our lives

Their dedicated work often becomes decisive in solving crimes and apprehending criminals. They are indispensable when carrying out search activities to detect missing people and material assets. The service dogs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs are ideally trained to search for weapons, narcotic drugs, explosives and devices. These loyal animals assist police officers by going out with them to patrol city streets, help maintain order during public events, and also carefully inspect airports, railway and bus stations.

During vehicle inspections, service dogs also provide indispensable support. Great benefit These pets bring their work to customs during a search. During security and guard duty, border guards are also assisted by service dogs. Breeds for such activities are specially selected. Police dog handlers agree that shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dobermans are most suitable.

History of the development of service dog breeding

This genus appeared human activity almost a century ago. Before 1917, these animals performed a number of primitive functions. They were mainly used by the peoples of the northern regions. The dogs' duties were limited to transporting heavy loads, as well as protecting reindeer herds. After 1920, service dog breeding began to develop rapidly. This happened after the appearance in our country of such breeds as German and European shepherds. These animals immediately began to be used in the sanitary service, the army, and were involved in the search for criminals. Many specialized nurseries began to appear where service dogs were bred and raised. They were the foundation for the development service dog breeding in our country. Most of the dogs that were considered herding dogs are now used as service dogs. Breeds in this category require long walks. Short-haired working dogs are ideal for military and police work. They have an unusually kind disposition, which allows them to be used in the rescue service and even in sports.

Service Dog Training

Service dogs are purchased as puppies. First of all, they are taught the simplest commands. They begin to be seriously trained and prepared for work at one year of age. Each dog undergoes preliminary testing. The best service dogs must meet mandatory requirements. To do this, you must have good health, resistance to irritants, good appetite, excellent sense of smell, and activity. Service dogs must have no fear of humans and bad habits, for example, chasing your tail.

Training of search dogs begins with learning the ability to pick up a person's scent and not be afraid of shots. The basis of training is not cruelty, but care, love and affection. These integral components of raising a good dog are indicators of the effective work of a dog handler. Anyone who treats wards with disrespect and rudeness is removed from service.

In such a category as service dogs, German shepherds are widely used. This breed is divided into two groups by origin - European and Asian. If the first is distinguished by a more lively temperament, then the Asian group is characterized by such features as a large physique, strength and anger. The “golden mean” is the South Russian Shepherd, which combines the characteristics of both of the above groups of dogs.

Any large dog, which is each representative of the service class, must be well-bred. Otherwise, there is a high probability that the owner will have to face various kinds of troubles. At the same time, an uncontrolled animal can cause harm to others. The owner of a service dog must be aware of the full responsibility. Such pets require training: first general, and then service. To obtain a breeding class, an animal needs a diploma of passing one or more training courses. A properly balanced feeding diet plays a vital role in the development of good health for a service dog. High-quality nutrition requires considerable expenditure.

Is it worth buying such a pet for your home?

In order to have such a large animal in an apartment, certain conditions must be met: the presence large quantity free time, experience, knowledge about the characteristics of the care and needs of the dog, as well as the opportunity to provide the animal with quality nutrition. Service dogs are often found in the homes of people who have no idea how to properly care for them. Such potential owners should be aware that this category animals are not initially adapted to living in a house. These dogs, being large and strong, need to maintain their physical condition through regular long walks and the opportunity to frolic without a leash. Unfortunately, most people, when they come home from work, do not find the necessary amount of time to walk their service dog. In this regard, pets often develop various types of diseases associated with lack of mobility. It often happens that an unprepared person fails to raise such a pet, as a result of which once docile service dogs become uncontrollable and angry. In such situations, the nursery often becomes a new home for the animals.

What breeds are there?

The tasks that service dogs cope with are not easy and very responsible. Their breeds took many years to form. Habits were carefully studied and compared external signs to get the final result. An example of this is a breed such as the Giant Schnauzer. It is believed that its ancestor was a wire-haired dog, which was used for hunting in European countries. The final formation of the breed occurred in Germany. These long-haired working dogs get their name from the bushy whiskers on their faces. Today the schnauzer is one of the best watchdogs. Thanks to this, this breed has become widespread on different continents.

Close to Schnauzers is the Pinscher breed. These service dogs are short-haired. They differ in size, color and purpose. Although most pinschers are bred as decorative dogs, each such dog is an excellent watchdog. The ancestor of this group is the German Pinscher. In Russia, the more popular breed is called the Doberman Pinscher, bred by the Swiss Dobermann. These dogs are the largest of the pinschers. They have a harmonious physique, excellent instincts and service qualities. Although they are not as easy to train as German Shepherds, with patience they can be trained to become a wonderful friend and companion.

Born hunters

The English breed of hunting dogs are terriers. To date, about thirty-five different terriers have been bred. Despite their external differences, they all have something in common characteristic features. These dogs are extremely active, lively and aggressive towards animals. People who dream of a quiet life should not get a terrier, as this breed requires constant attention from the owner.

The classic working breed is the Airedale Terrier. It is used in both military and civil service. Moreover, these animals make wonderful hunters and hounds. Also, dogs of this breed can become a good friend for families and children.

The most balanced dogs

Labradors are distinguished by their ability to learn and their flexible nature. This popular breed is a favorite in America and Europe. Due to the fact that Labradors are very affectionate, they are not used for protection. Despite this, they are successfully involved in the search for explosives, drugs, and excavations under the ruins of injured people.

Solid appearance and calm character

The Rottweiler is also an excellent example of a service dog. Harmony, balance and power indicate the dog’s determination and courage. The build of this breed is compact and strong. This dog is strong, confident and smart. If the owner does an excellent job managing this service dog, then this animal behaves aloof and distrustful with strangers.

Devoted friend

The Boxer breed is respected for its loyal character, intelligence and external qualities. Even though for a long time these dogs are emotionally immature, in certain age they abruptly learn everything that they tried to convey to them in childhood. They get along well with any animal, but they have a tendency to chase other small animals that are not members of their family. Boxers are very attached to their owners, and they are inhospitable to strangers. If the puppy was not socialized as a child, as an adult he will bark loudly at any stranger who appears in the owner’s house.

Giant breed

The Great Dane is rightfully considered one of the largest service dogs. His weight reaches ninety kilograms, and his height is eighty centimeters. By nature, the Great Dane is calm, not aggressive. This dog never has any problems communicating with people. It should be remembered that such dogs are not aware of their colossal size and can knock a person to the ground in a game. Under no circumstances should this be recognized as an act of aggression on the part of the pet.

Thus, despite all the diversity of service dogs, each breed is used in a certain area of ​​activity, depending on its character, physique and ability to learn. The tactics of using service dogs involves her working with only one dog handler, in whom she sees her master. Only in this case is coherence achieved in work and high efficiency results.

Working breeds- this is a group of dogs capable of working in guard, search and similar types of services, serving in the police, being a shepherd or sled dog. These include large, strong and hardy species that have innate guard qualities and require long walks and good physical training.

They have a well-developed instinct to guard the owner himself, his home and territory.

By their nature, they are angry, but not aggressive, they are suspicious of strangers and strangers, but at the same time they are easy to train.

For many years, herding breeds were used for domestic work, working in pastures where they protected flocks of sheep and cattle from predators.

1. Sled breeds serve vehicle, for people living in the Far North (the average load per dog is 40-50 kg, the speed of the team is up to 15 km/h).
2. Guards and detectives often used to search and capture criminals, to protect state borders, to serve in the army (signal dog, mine detection or sanitary work), work at the airport to detect illegal drugs, and can guard military, industrial or economic facilities.
3. Sports group - These are short-haired species with a kind and flexible character, not suitable for guard or guard duty. But their capabilities are often used to search for drugs, weapons, and to work in the rescue service.

Service dogs work as guides and assistants for blind people and people with disabilities.

The owner of a service dog must be aware of all responsibility for the pet and its maintenance. Any large breed, especially those living in a city apartment, must undergo early socialization, learn commands and be trainable. Otherwise, the owner exposes himself and the people around him to danger and various troubles. A large and strong dog needs good physical training and maintaining shape; for this, it needs long active walks (at least 2 times a day), the ability to run without a leash in an open space.

An important role in maintaining a service breed is played by the correct balanced diet, vitamins and minerals.

A sled dog, a draft horse, running across the snowy plains of the North. The Malamute is able to survive at temperatures of 70 degrees below zero. Bred to work in a harness, in a team with other dogs. The breed is used for hunting and transporting heavy loads on ice and snow. This is a large, strong and hardy breed, capable of performing various jobs. Many owners use them in the sport of skijoring (towing a skier with dogs).

A security guard, watchman and reliable friend, will always come to the aid and protection of the owner. He has restless energy and activity, which simply needs to be channeled into a peaceful direction: running, swimming, long walks. Needs training and education from puppyhood. With good upbringing, this is an excellent companion, an intelligent and affectionate pet, capable of doing any work and participating in different types sports for dogs.

An amazing service breed, which is divided into 4 subspecies: Groenendael, Tervuren, Malinau and Laekenois. These dogs are different in appearance, but in character and temperament they are the same. They are smart, balanced and sociable. They are gentle towards children, devoted to their owner, graceful, have a good sense of smell, and will serve as a good watchman and security guard. They are easy to train and happily follow commands for praise.

The Bernese Shepherd is strong, intelligent and kind dog with well-developed muscles. It lends itself well to training, is ready to obey absolutely all family members, without singling out one owner - the leader. The peculiarity is that she guards and protects only those people whom she loves and listens to. Like any large breed, maturation occurs slowly and only by the age of three does the pet become intelligent and mature. Therefore, with early age You should not encourage their pranks, but find the right approach to education.

A large guard and service breed, it was originally bred to catch and pin prey to the ground without causing harm to it. Perhaps this is why she received the name “gentle giant”. They are good-natured and sweet, they adore children and are ready to kiss them all day long, for them he is their best friend and companion. Their large size and menacing appearance make them excellent guards for their owners. By nature, the Bullmastiff is a kind and gentle dog.

A universal breed, hunter, companion, service and detection dog. Its compact size, kind, cheerful and playful character make the Airedale an excellent family pet.

An energetic, very intelligent, persistent and cheerful breed. Have the ability to work in various areas, can serve in the army, guard the owner’s house and property, and play with children. They love to run and frolic and will always find a way to make a person laugh. Of all the terriers, the Airedale Terrier is the largest and is called the “king of terriers.” They were bred to hunt animals running on the ground, they are famous for their versatile abilities, during the war they even worked as messengers and delivered mail to soldiers.

A noble, intelligent and extremely beautiful dog, infinitely devoted to its owner. Since its appearance, this breed has become an indispensable assistant to humans; it is a shepherd, guard and faithful companion. They tend to accept independent decisions, carry out difficult tasks assigned by humans, and monitor the animals entrusted to her without harming them. A good and affectionate friend for children.

A cheerful and affectionate bearded man will bring joy and positivity into your life. He is energetic, active and cheerful. It may be distrustful of outsiders and strangers, but for the owner the Giant Schnauzer true friend, protector, and watchman. He loves active, outdoor games, walking a lot and frolicking in open areas. He is easy to train and loves to participate in agility.

It is called "the dog of the samurai." It was created by nature for people who value the strength of spirit in a pet, the ability to make their own decisions, and boundless devotion to the owner and all members of the family in which they live. Akita Inu is a beautiful, cheerful, active breed, a good watchman and guard. He has a proud, independent disposition, and an explosive temperament with outward calm and meekness.

The breed is famous for its universal abilities; they can look after the farm, guard the house and surrounding area, can herd sheep or go hunting with a person. It has a lively character, characteristic of companion dogs, and can accompany its owner everywhere, both on walks and on trips. He senses the owner’s mood well; if necessary, he can sit quietly and watch him, but at the first call for a walk he becomes active and cheerful.

- This special group breeds of dogs that provide practical assistance to people in guard, sled, search, herding and other services. These can be dogs of various breeds, which are used in almost all countries of the world. Service dogs have long helped people in protecting housing and important industrial facilities, serve as a means of transportation in the Far North and are used in the army, save people in snow-capped mountains, herd livestock and act as guides for blind people. Everyone is well aware of the role of service dogs in space exploration, because these animals became the first space travelers. Due to some of the qualities of service dogs, they are often used in various scientific experiments. Scientist I.P. Pavlov discovered conditioned and unconditioned reflexes by conducting experiments with service dogs.

Distinctive Features

Dogs of this group are, as a rule, strong, hardy animals that have acute hearing, keen sense of smell and lightning-fast reactions. Service dogs have a strong build and are quite easy to care for, but require a certain amount of time and attention. They are loyal to their owner, distrustful of strangers and are well trained. The instinct to protect a person, his property and home is the basic distinguishing feature service dogs. In livestock-raising areas where domestic animals need protection, various types of shepherd dogs come to the aid of people. These animals have an innate hatred of wolves, a strong grip and a brave heart.

From the history of service dog breeding

The history of the emergence of this type of activity in Russia dates back to the relatively recent past. Before the 1917 revolution, service dog breeding was poorly organized and poorly developed, and the dogs themselves performed only primitive functions. Their use was limited to transporting heavy loads in the northern regions and protecting reindeer herds. Service dog breeding developed rapidly in the 20th century, when German and Scottish shepherds were imported into Russia. The appearance of these dogs marked the beginning of the use of animals in the army, for communications and sanitary service, and later for searching for criminals. At the same time, nurseries appeared where service dogs were raised, schools for their education and training, which became the foundation for the development of service dog breeding. Amateur dog breeders, along with defense society clubs, played important role in the development and dissemination of this useful idea in the country.

All dogs in this group are large, strong animals, so their owners must be aware of the extent of their responsibility for the maintenance and upbringing of their pets. This is especially important for dogs living within the city, since ill-trained service breed dogs pose a serious danger to others and can cause major troubles for their owners. Almost all service dogs need proper education, which can be replaced by general or service training. In addition, the dog will not be able to obtain a breeding class without a diploma of passing a training course. Proper maintenance is also important for the health of the animal. Large service dog in order to maintain good physical fitness, you need regular walks and the opportunity to frolic in open space. Nutrition for service dogs is another important condition proper maintenance of these animals. Feeding must be balanced, and this requires serious material costs and certain knowledge from the owner.

Considering the serious responsibility of the owner of a service dog for the people around him and the animal itself, labor-intensive care and significant material costs, I would like to draw the attention of dog lovers to the fact that these specific animals are not very suitable for the role of a temporary fashionable toy. It’s worth getting a service dog only after carefully weighing your capabilities and being aware of the complexity of the undertaking.

According to a beautiful Welsh legend, little corgis were carriage dogs for fairies and elves. And the saddle-shaped spot that can be seen on doggies’ backs is proof of this. Don't believe in fairy tales, even if they are beautiful? Then hold on real story breeds Welsh Corgis have the blood of Swedish Vallnuds. The Vikings brought the stocky, beefy men to the British Isles. According to the classification of the International Canine Federation, dogs belong to the 1st group (herding and cattle dogs), 1st section (shepherd dogs). Needless to say, since the 10th century they have played the role of nimble and wise shepherds.

Formidable and brave staffs are English by origin. The breed appeared in the 19th century in Staffordshire. To develop this variety, a bulldog was crossed with a terrier. The dog turned out to be quite large and aggressive. It began to be used in dog fights. But at the beginning of the 20th century, bloody fights between four-legged animals were banned in America. At this time, two breeds appeared: the American Staffordshire Terrier and the. The first one was bred as a show breed.

The Shetland Sheepdog is an elegant breed for those who have long dreamed of a collie, but cannot afford one. big dog. The miniature herding breed originated in the Shetland Islands. Sheltie's ancient ancestors are border collies. The history of the breed is as follows: shepherds crossed collie with a herding breed, as a result of which a small copy of collie was obtained. In the 19th century, Shetland Sheepdogs were threatened with extinction: cattle breeding became larger, and the little ones could not cope with huge herds of animals.

The German Shepherd breed has gained disconcerting popularity in a relatively short time. Back in 1899, a representative of this species was first presented at a national dog show in Germany, and today the pets are known all over the world. And they don’t just know, they turn on German Shepherds as assistants and companions.

The history of the American Pit Bull Terrier breed is not completely known. The ancestors of the Pits are believed to have originated in the 14th century in England or Ireland. According to the history of origin, they have the blood of bulldogs and terriers. But unlike these breeds, the pit bull breed is not recognized by the International Canine Federation. And all because since the 19th century they have been fighting dogs that took part in prohibited fights. They were called death machines and were avoided.

Kind and gentle at heart, but menacing in appearance. For what purpose were Newfoundlands bred? The history of the breed takes us to the island of the same name. There are several versions of the origin of tetrapods. According to the most common opinion, the Newfie is the result of crossing a black wolf with a mastiff. The diver dogs were faithful assistants fishermen: they helped to get objects out of the water, they could even grab a fish that had fallen off a hook. With their help, fishing nets were placed and assembled. But the greatest advantage of Newfoundlands was considered to be that they could save a drowning person.

The history of the origin of the Caucasian breed is ambiguous. The accepted version is that this is an indigenous breed of the Caucasus. It was bred about 2 thousand years ago. And even then she had excellent guard instincts. She accompanied travelers and guarded mountain settlements. The Caucasian is recognized by the International Canine Federation: belongs to the 2nd group (Pinchers and Schnauzers), 2nd section (Molossians).

The sledding breed was registered by the Americans - this happened in the 30s. From that moment on, the popularity of dogs began to grow in geometric progression. And if previously dogs were used to move around snowy areas, today they are the center of attention - participants in popular videos and shows, favorites of children and adults. Take a look at the photo: funny energizers will captivate anyone. The breed is recognized by the International Canine Federation. Pets belong to group 5 (Spitz and primitive type breeds), section 1 (northern sled dogs). The FCI has established breed standards:

The English Bulldog dog breed is the national pride of the residents of Foggy Albion. The noble four-legged animals included in the 2nd group of the FCI (Molossians and Mastiffs) exhibit the habits of true gentlemen. The history of the breed goes back to the 19th century, and the ancestors of the bulldogs are representatives of the pickling breed and the Old English bulldogs. Although initially these four-legged animals did not perform gentleman’s work.

You cannot find a more amazing dog than the German Shorthaired Pointer. Why? It combines best qualities pointers and retrievers: they easily rush into the water after prey, and if necessary, they instantly stand up. Yes, yes, this is a hunting breed. But these four-legged animals make not only first-class cops, but also excellent service dogs. Is there anything you need to watch out for? As easy as pie! Do you need to play the role of a cab driver - for example, take the children on a sled ride? Easily!

• They have a bold character;
• have super endurance;
• can boast of amazing hearing and the same sense of smell;
• are easy to train;
• display a distrustful attitude towards strangers;
• they have a well-developed instinct to protect the owner and his property;
• in certain cases they are characterized by aggressive behavior.

Loyal animals, capable of learning, with a wide range of chest, muscular body and strong paws, powerful neck - by these signs you can recognize a service dog. However, appearance and the character of quadrupeds depends on the tasks they perform. Exists .

Four-legged animals have served humans for as long as they have existed on this planet. Even in ancient times, service dogs helped in hunting, were devoted comrades in battles with opponents, and even acted as spies. Today, the scope of use of service breed dogs has expanded significantly. Let's look at what types of service dogs there are:

• pastoral quadrupeds. They act as guards and observers at the same time, they are right hand farmers. The collie is considered the best shepherd dog. Those with thick and long hair are not afraid of bad weather. They are distinguished by high intelligence, friendliness and disarming loyalty. Bobtails are also popular in this area - four-legged shepherds have a rather loud and rude bark;
• detection dogs. Human assistants search for traces of the criminal, corpses, drugs, as well as weapons and explosives. Sniffer dogs must have high olfactory sensitivity and amazing intelligence. Shepherd dogs are endowed with these qualities. And the most common applicants for this position are precisely. They are famous for their high learning ability, lightning-fast reaction and good memory;
• guard dogs. The main duties of pets include protecting territory, property or even a person. Four-legged friends for protection require special devotion to the owner, friendliness and at the same time readiness to attack if boundaries are violated, which is important for a guard pet. Giant Schnauzers, as well as other breeds of the Schnauzer group, have proven themselves to be worthy guard dogs. If we talk about personal protection, Dobermans, or more precisely, Doberman Pinschers, are considered first-class bodyguard dogs. Courageous, balanced and intelligent guard pets have no equal in this matter;
• sled dogs. Animals act as draft forces on snow/ice, and are used to transport people and cargo, as well as to tow boats. Power, endurance and resistance to low temperatures— distinctive qualities of riding pets. For these purposes, as a rule, huskies, malamutes and samoyeds are used. Pets are able to overcome obstacles from 40 to 60 km per day. They do not need pasture;
• rescue dogs. Pets extend a helping paw to everyone who is in trouble: they find themselves under thick snow in the mountains/forests or go to the bottom in the water. Newfoundlands are not afraid of frost and thrive in icy water. They are endowed with the strongest instinct to save people. And they are often used to search for people covered in snow - animals of this breed have a stunningly acute sense of smell;
• guide dogs. These include animals that provide assistance to visually impaired or blind people. Thanks to four-legged friends, such people can move freely outdoors. Exemplary guide dogs are called Labrador retrievers belonging to sporting breeds dogs. Bring necessary thing or medicine for the owner, turning on/off the light - Labradors can do all this.

They perform vital tasks, and their contribution to many areas of human activity is invaluable. But the most important profession of a dog is to be a true friend to man!

Today, even those dogs that are extremely difficult to train have begun to be included in this category: Chow Chows, Shar Peis and even Afghans. Meanwhile, service dogs are dogs capable of performing guard duty, hardy, strong, well trained, retaining acquired skills throughout their dog life and passing on the ability to train to their descendants. Apparently, the authors of books that classify hunting dogs as service dogs actually do not even have general concept about cynology. Therefore, we will begin by listing specific breeds. So...

Service dogs - breeds:

• Shepherd dogs (all);
• Dobermans;
• Molossians (boxers, Rottweilers, mastiffs, bullmastiffs, Bordeaux and ;
• some terriers (eg Airedale) and schnauzers (Giant Schnauzer).

Today, the attitude of others towards most of them (Rottweilers, mastiffs, etc.) is extremely wary. And this is understandable. Desire to cover up strong dog, to feel their power and guaranteed safety, sometimes overshadows reason and caution: a person buys a cute puppy in the hope that it will grow up and become his bodyguard. At this moment there is no talk of any serious approach to selection and further mandatory training. It's a pity. Many people know that parents pass on their qualities (not only exterior, but also working) by inheritance, but few bother to inquire about the ancestors of the puppy they are buying. Dogs that are too aggressive or hysterical should not be allowed to be bred at all. But this remains in theory, but in practice it turns out the other way around: fashion dictates demand to the world. Therefore, quite often, unprincipled owners of “service dogs” (and not only) breed their pets, guided by only one goal: to earn money...

Service dogs can be allowed to breed only if they have good exterior grades (for a male dog a grade of “excellent” and not lower is acceptable, and for a female dog the minimum is “very good”, but preferably “excellent”) and the presence of working diplomas indicating the type training and degree. When buying a puppy, ask for certificates from the parents. Breeders are required to provide them. Otherwise, refuse the purchase - it is in your best interests.

When bringing a puppy into your home, consider: proper feeding, regular walks and timely vaccinations will not be enough. Remember: training of service dogs is mandatory. First of all, you need this: an adult, uncontrollable dog is truly dangerous.

Often inexperienced dog breeders ask: when to start training? Some recommend starting from three months, others from six, and some even argue that it is best to start classes after a year. Recommendations like these make me smile. For some reason, I imagine a sixteen-year-old teenager who was given an ABC book in his hands for the first time...

Training should begin from the moment the baby appears in the house, with stroking the furry ball, with a gentle pronouncement of its nickname. The puppy gets used to your smell, voice and intonation. Contact is established. This - initial stage, starting point. As soon as the baby adapts (usually three days, no more), you can begin to practice the most important command, “Come to me!” Call the puppy, holding a bowl of tasty food in your hands and saying: “Come to me!” And be sure to sit down. This way the puppy will come faster. As soon as you approach, stroke it and praise: “Good!” and give him the food. Never punish your dog after the command “Come!” This is taboo!!! This team must be loved. The dog should “fly” to you with pleasure and joy, knowing that it will be praised, petted, and given something tasty. By punishing the dog only once after this command, you can start a countdown: the dog will stop coming at all.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to cover all aspects of training in one article. Moreover, service dogs work in different directions and it is extremely important what you want to achieve from your pet. In addition, in many cases it is necessary clear example and an experienced assistant. And an article (or even a book) is not enough here. Beginners need an experienced and knowledgeable instructor. But do not rush to give your dog into unfamiliar hands. Go to classes, see how other dogs work, what approach your chosen instructor has to work and to each dog in particular. After all, here, as with a child, an individual approach is required: you need to feel the dog. The way she feels about you. And she feels it, don’t even doubt it!

Do not agree to boarding houses: the dog may be drilled. But she doesn’t live with the instructor, but with you. Therefore, work on your own, but under the supervision of an instructor coordinating your actions. Everything is like at school: class, homework, checking the completed task, again a lesson with the instructor. Usually, an obedience course takes two months (but this is very arbitrary). After completing the course and receiving a certificate, do not give up: the acquired skills may be forgotten, so use the acquired knowledge regularly when walking and playing. Let the puppy grow up, get stronger, and develop. And then you can think about " higher education" - OKD, ZKS. It’s really better to start these courses after 10 months (and sometimes later), since the load on the psyche is great and a fragile puppy may well become hysterical.

And a few more words about punishment. Of course, it is used in training. Usually this is a tug on the leash, a lowered voice (displeased intonation). But it is applicable only at the moment of an incorrectly performed (or unwanted) action. Neither before nor after. Only at this very moment. The same applies to life situations. When you come home and see tattered wallpaper or a puddle, or torn shoes, do not punish the dog - it is useless. The dog will understand that you are scolding him, but he will not understand the main thing: why he is being scolded. For the action has already been completed and forgotten. It’s only the owner’s fault that the dog is mischievous: he didn’t hide the wires, didn’t hide the shoes, left for a long time... But dogs are also sad, they also have tears flowing, they know how to love as much as even a person can’t... Do not offend the most loyal creature, look for reasons in your actions. After all, dogs are not responsible for us, but we are responsible for them...