Gun Dog Forum

I have had my 1-1/2 year old GSP for about a month now and we are training nearly every day now. I was working with him yesterday and noticed a change in him that I like. When I first got him, he would just run around our fenced yard without really noticing who and what is there. He just wanted to run. Now that we are in the thick of training, he still runs around the yard, but is looking to see where I am. He'll even run by me to "check in."

I really like seeing these actions. I'm sure it's as a result of our training; however, this is my first dog and it made me wonder what typical changes does a dog go through during training. So that's my question.

As training progresses, what changes do most of you see in your dogs?

It would seem they start off getting more obedient as you break them in. Then you hit a plateau. Then they start to do fun things to test you. Then you start all over again.
At least that's my understanding so far.

Orangecrush, this is me frist bird dog and training me self. Dutchess is 2 years old now. I agree with Benny as far as the "ups and downs" there will be days he will test you, then there will be days that everthing goes great. Just remeber...it only gets better as time and training goes along As the pup grows and discovers what is exspected of him, he will change his manners.

Im sure others who have raised many more dogs can give more advice

.... and if the dog is a female & they go into their first heat, then EVERYTHING is out the window! (My experience.....)