How To Train German Shorthaired Pointers 12 Steps With Pictures

Since GSPs are so intelligent, it probably won’t take long for your GSP to learn these basic commands.

To redirect your GSP’s hunting instinct, give him toys to play with that will keep him busy for long stretches of time. For example, give him a Kong toy, which is a food puzzle. [3] X Research source You can also play fetch and tug of war with your GSP. You could even have it chase you (in a playful way, of course). [4] X Research source Your goal should not be to eliminate your GSP’s instinct to hunt. Rather, you should channel that instinct into something more appropriate for your living environment.

Hiking is another way to exercise your GSP. [6] X Research source Long walks can also provide a good energy outlet for your GSP.

During the crate training process, make the crate comfortable for your puppy by putting toys and a blanket in the crate and placing a blanket or sheet on top of the crate. [8] X Research source The blanket or sheet on top of the crate will make it feel like a cozy den to your puppy. Crate training has several benefits. It will keep your puppy out of trouble while you are away from home and will make housetraining a little easier. As your puppy matures into an adult, the crate can become a defined sleeping area. [9] X Research source Pick a crate size that is large enough for an adult GSP. A 36 x 36 inch (91 x 91 cm) crate would be a good size. Some crates have an adjustable interior so you can increase the amount of space in the crate as a puppy grows. Do not rush the crate training process. It may take your puppy a few weeks, or even a few months, before it’s comfortable staying in the crate for long time periods.

Let your puppy choose an area outside to eliminate and always take it to that area. Your puppy will leave its scent in the area. [11] X Research source Give your puppy lots of verbal praise when it eliminates outside. This will reinforce to your puppy that going to the bathroom outside is the right thing to do. If your puppy has an indoor bathroom accident, clean it up without punishing him. Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent of ammonia so your puppy doesn’t eliminate in that spot again. [12] X Research source GSP puppies can hold their bladders for about 1 hour per month of age. Consider hiring a pet sitter or dog walker who could take your puppy out twice during the day when you’re not home.

If your puppy starts to pull when you go on walks outside, do not jerk the leash. Instead, stop walking and call your puppy back to you. You can also start walking in the other direction. Your puppy will soon realize that it should follow you. Giving your puppy periodic treats during the walk will help reinforce good leash behavior. Reward your puppy when it does not pull on the leash.

Strategies for socializing your puppy include regular introductions to friendly people and going to busy parks. [16] X Research source The more people (and pets) your puppy can meet during the socialization period, the more well-adjusted it will be as an adult. Wait until your puppy is fully vaccinated before going to a dog park. Otherwise, your puppy could get exposed to a disease at a dog park that could make it very sick. Your vet can recommend a good age for him to go to a dog park. Feel free to take him to ‘people’ parks. Dogs that are not properly socialized will be fearful of new situations and act inappropriately around people and other pets.

Positive reinforcement can also add energy and enthusiasm to your training sessions. Do not use negative reinforcement, such as yelling or physical punishment. GSPs are very sensitive to human reactions, so yelling or physical punishment will negatively affect your GSP. [19] X Research source

GSPs also get easily distracted. Smelling something different in the air could be enough to distract your GSP from the task at hand. Short training sessions could help your dog stay focused for short bursts of time.

To counteract the distraction, offer your GSP plenty of treats. The smell of a tasty treat in your hand will help your GSP refocus its attention on you.