Weimaraner Training
Since the 1600s, the Weimaraner breed has been a mainstay in Germany, originally bred by nobility for the purposes of hunting and sport. The result is a dog with an exceptional sense of smell, plenty of personality, and a very playful nature.
However, it can also make Weimaraner training a trying experience as you try to coral your dog and teach them obedience basics.
What Weimaraners Require
Before starting Weimaraner training, know that these dogs are extremely high energy. Weighing in at nearly 80 pounds on average, they will live for as long as 12 years and will need at least two lengthy walks every day to keep them active and in shape.
The result is a breed that needs space, attention, and energy consuming activities to keep happy.
For many dog owners, this isn’t a problem, but for some it can represent a trying experience that could be avoided by getting a less energetic dog.
For those that fall in love with the “grey ghost”, though, know that your Weimaraner will make a fantastic watchdog and is incredibly tolerant of people, other animals, and almost all forms of positive attention.
The Basics of Weimaraner Training
The Weimaraner breed was originally developed for the hunting of large game – animals like boars, deer, and bears among others. So, they will have some aggressive tendencies if they are not properly trained at a young age.
Ideally, you will channel this behaviour in a way that will protect you and your home, but not put anyone in that home in danger. Know that it is very rare for a Weimaraner to display open aggression towards people.
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And if you are serious about raising these lovely animals, the easiest way to avoid the issue is simply to maintain an alpha leadership stance over your dog from the moment they are born.
In addition to potential aggression, Weimaraners are quite prone to separation anxiety, which can develop very young and be extremely tough to handle as they age and it worsens.
Again, having a strong alpha relationship with your dog should minimize their urgent desire to reunite. Additionally, at a young age, make sure to avoid situations where you give attention to your dog before or after you leave the house. They will take this as reinforcement of their anxious behaviour.
One thing every Weimaraner needs is early socializing. Make sure your dog spends time not only with you but with other dogs at a very young age. If you have other pets, like a cat or rabbit, make sure the dog meets them early so he recognizes them as members of the household, and not prey.
Daily Fixes for Common Problems
One of the most common problems with Weimaraners is their overabundance of energy and anxiety. This can be handled universally with lots of daily exercise, careful obedience training, and a strong alpha presence in the house.
Weimaraner training is almost entirely reliant on these three things. If you cannot spend enough time at home with your new dog, he very well may develop unwanted long term behaviours.
Overall, you’re going to find that Weimaraner training takes a lot of time and energy on your part when the dog is young. You will need to be there for him for a few weeks early on and expect to put up with a lot of excess energy and anxiousness.
But, if you are consistent, have a firm but fair attitude, and always maintain steady, well defined rules in the household, your Weimaraner will grow into a strong, protective family dog that will give very few problems.