Do Schutzhund-Trained Dogs make good home companions?
(credit to United Schutzhund Clubs of America)
- Since Schutzhund is the demonstration of the German Shepherd dog’s
most desirable characteristics, dogs well trained in Schutzhund are
usually excellent companions in the home. The German Shepherd Dog – like
any other working dog that possesses mental stability - has trust and
confidence in itself allowing it to be at peace with its surroundings.
- In addition to sound structural efficiencies for long, arduous work,
the standard for the German Shepherd Dog calls for mental stability and
a willingness to work. The dog should be approachable, quietly standing
its ground, showing confidence and a willingness to meet overtures
without itself necessarily making them. It should be generally calm, but
eager and alert when the situation warrants. It should be fearless, but
also good with children.
- The German Shepherd Dog should not be timid or react nervously to
unusual sounds or sights. A dog that is overly aggressive because of its
overall fears of people and events can be extremely dangerous. The
Schutzhund sport is designed to identify and eliminate such dogs from
breeding stock. Because Schutzhund training gives the owner a great deal
of control over the dog, the owner is able to let the dog have more
fun. Not only is Schutzhund training itself enjoyable for the dog, but
the Schutzhund trained dog knows how to please its owners, creating a
stronger bond between dog and owners.
