Hi Jan,

Hureau attended his first formal obedience class last night. When we first arrived, Hureau was barking at the other dogs
and people. One of the trainers who owns several GSD’s approached me to observe Hureau’s behavior. She told me it
was fear based and fairly normal for a dog his age coming into a new environment. She placed a training collar on
Hureau and asked me if she could work with him for a few minutes. Within 5 minutes, Hureau had stopped barking and
was paying attention. The trainer brought Hureau back to me and explained how to correct him and when to praise him.
The class was 1 hour in length and I couldn’t believe the transformation of Hureau. He went from aggressive, barking,
trouble maker Hureau to formal heeling with a loose leash and sitting when I stopped. He was focused on me and paid
little attention to the other dogs and people. The trainer with the GSD’s weaved her dog through all of the people and
dogs and when she approached us, Hureau turned his head a bit, but I corrected him and told him to “Focus”, and the
dog went past us without reaction from Hureau.

I was so pleased after the class and realized how smart Hureau is. Rethinking his behavior now I realize that I was most
of the problem causing Hureau’s bad behavior and all he needs is the correct handling. Part of it is also our living in a
rural enviroment here and his lack of daily socialization with other dogs and people was something I didn't realize was
as important as it is. Seeing him in class now I have never seen a dog’s behavior change so quickly. Negative
consequence when he is not acting correctly and praise when he is. The negative amounts to a quick snap of the leash
and the praise is a verbal “good Hureau” and a loose (no tension) leash. Pretty simple and very effective. No treats as a
reward while training, no yelling, consistent commands, and stay relaxed so the dog won’t be aware of tension.

After what I experienced with Hureau, I might suggest to you that you may want to consider placing something on your
web site about how important both Socialization and Obedience training is for a GSD although I know you discuss how
important Puppy Socialization classes and general socialization is with each of your buyers as you did with us. It could
be the difference between having a happy, healthy GSD or a GSD that can’t go out with the public or needs to be placed
in the kennel when you have guests. Suggesting that finding a trainer before your clients pick up their new GSD may be a
good prerequisite to head off any behavior problems. Just some of my thoughts that may help you as a really good
breeder. I realize it's hard to lend your guidance to the owners once the puppy leaves for it's new home and leaves your
control.

Hureau is 4 ½ month old and currently weighs 45lbs. Needless to say he is going to be a “moose” when he is fully grown.
The trainer really admired him and I told her about a great breeder from WY. You might get some attention from GSD
fans in my local area. He attracted a lot of attention from everybody at the training facility. He is definitely on the right
track now.

Sincerely,

Jim & Hureau California