Hello German shepherd puppies lovers:
It is so enjoyable to see German shepherd puppies begin their ceremonial dance from about 5 weeks on. Dogs are all about ceremony. They have learned scripted communications patterns making it easier to predict their behavior and for them to predict other dogs’ behavior. They have meet and greet scripts, challenging scripts, pack order testing and proving scripts, etc. It is a simple yet clear language which we can learn to read if we look for the signs. And reading them can really help you obviate being victims of K-9 aggression.
For example, take the tail. If the tail is in its natural position, dogs are normally at ease with their environment. If it is tucked between its legs the dog is usually demonstrating signs of submission. If it is held high, stiff and rigid, it is a sign of wariness and dominance. If it is high and stiff/rigid, and slowly “flagged” (moved side to side) the dog is in a challenging and aggressive posture so stay back.
Let’s give one example of how we might use ceremony and scripted language of our K9 companions to our use. For example, you may be introducing an adult dog into your pack with other dogs. A great way to do this is on the walk. One person walks one dog (dog on left) and the other the other dog (dog again on walker’s left). Stop one dog and stand in front securing his head forward. The other person will bring their dog around and allow it to sniff behind the other dog. Once this scenting ritual is complete, repeat with the other dog. Do this a number of times on the walk.
Then, perform a ritualized submission routine to get each to submit to you while the other dog is near to emphasize your top pack position and teaching them to be comfortable with this behavior around other dogs. You first down one dog, and then, with dog on outside, circle the downed dog with yours. Do the same switching who is down.
By doing this you limit the script to scenting and avoid the possibility of a challenge script being invoked during the ritual by an unsure dog. Watch the tails. When they start to drop to normal height they are beginning to feel comfortable with eachother.
I hope this was helpful. Please visit our website for tons of information at “Banffy Haus K-9 University“ or our blog on German shepherd puppies and dogs.