GWPs are a German breed, with temperament more typical of a Doberman Pinscher or a Rottweiller. They are extremely loyal to their family, and are protective of their homes. They usually take a little time to "warm up" to strangers, although once they've decided someone is o.k., they are VERY friendly.
Breed Info
"GWPs are Working Dogs"
By Jodi Quesnell
This article was originally pubished in the July 2008 issue of the AKC Gazette
I tend to take for granted that GWPs are wonderful dogs, and forget they have minds of their own, and are perfectly willing to take over if given the opportunity. If you don't take on the role of leader, your GWP will.
When considering a GWP temperament, we need to acknowledge that they have many similarities to Working Group breeds, such as Dobermans, Boxers and Rottweilers, and their temperaments are not like retrievers or setters.
Most GWPs don't live to make their owners happy--they want to make themselves happy. If you are doing a good job as leader, your GWP will discover that he is happiest when you are happy. But, be careful--GWPs can quickly learn to manipulate you into doing things to make them happy. And, if that manipulation is allowed, it can become a major problem!
Adolescent GWPs are typically the worst offenders for this behavior and will continually test your basic leadership capabilities. You must not let your young dog get away with doing as he pleases, or he will soon expect it! He should learn that he gets fed on your terms, gets in and out of his crate on your terms, and he can get on the furniture only when you allow it. My dogs also learn that when I ask them to provide basic "manners" behavior there may be a treat involved, which generally gets me quicker, more enthusiastic responses. Of course, they don't always get a treat--as the leader, I make the decision.
A GWP needs a strong leader--someone who doesn't allow them to act out, and who commands respect from the dog. If a GWP is allowed to do as he pleases, he will protest when eventually told he can't do what he wants. A GWP can quickly take over a household, doing whatever he wants, and protesting when not given his way--by barking, screaming, chewing, and eventually biting.
It helps to keep your GWP busy. Give him a job! It doesn't matter if it's hunting, agility, running partner, or Frisbee dog. They were bred to work and when they don't have a job, they will find other things to keep them busy. Ideally, they need structured activity, which reinforces your authority. Just turning your GWP loose for a run will not be as beneficial as a run where the dog is expected to perform certain tasks--having to come when called, or even just turning a certain direction in the field when the handler turns. The important thing is that the dog should be working for the handler, not just doing whatever he wants, whenever he wants. Because they do best when performing a task for their owner, the happiest GWPs--and GWP owners--are those who do fieldwork, agility, obedience, or other structured activities.
Only by being a strong leader and refusing to allow your GWP to manipulate you with his behavior, will you have a wonderful, well-adjusted, well-behaved, loving companion. GWPs are great pets, hunting partners and performance dogs, but only if their owners are able to take chare of these strong-willed German "working dogs."
Don't forget, GWPs want to be part of the family. They do NOT make good kennel dogs!
