Raise two individuals
1:1Train separately
- One pup trains while the other naps in their crate with a chew. Then swap.
- Teach every new skill solo first. Only practice together once both have it down.
- Use each pup's name before every cue: "Kingslee, sit."
🛏️Separate crates & time
- Two crates, side by side at first, then gradually apart.
- Practice alone time daily so neither panics without the other (or you).
- Each pup gets solo walks and solo outings, not just walks together.
🤼Manage the wrestling
- Play is great, but keep it short. Call a break before it gets too wild.
- Watch for one pup always bullying the other. Separate them and reset.
- While ears are posted, no mouthing at heads. Redirect to toys.
🧠The Doberman brain
- Sensitive, clingy and very smart. Reward-based training works best, and harsh corrections backfire.
- Sessions of 3–5 minutes, several times a day. End on a win.
- Use part of their daily kibble as rewards so they don't gain weight.
🦷Land shark season
- Teach bite inhibition: a sharp "ouch," a short pause, then offer a toy.
- Frozen carrots and wet frozen washcloths soothe teething gums.
- Overtired puppies bite more. Puppies need 18–20 hours of sleep a day, so enforce naps.
🌍Socialize now
- The window for easy socialization closes around 14–16 weeks, so go for lots of calm, positive exposures.
- Before vaccines are done, use safe spots: friends' homes, carrying them, car rides, a puppy class with vaccinated pups.
- Use the Social checklist below to track it.
♂ + ♀ under one roof: plan for Roman's first heat
A Doberman girl's first heat usually comes somewhere between 6 and 12 months, and a boy can be fertile from around 6 months. During her heat (about 3 weeks) they need to be completely separated, not just supervised. Talk with your vet early about spay/neuter timing. For large breeds many vets suggest waiting until growth is further along, so have a separation plan (rooms, crates, gates, maybe a sitter) ready in advance.
Who knows what
Tap a level to move it along: Not started → Introduced → Practicing → Reliable. Saved for both your phone and Mac.
| Skill | Kingslee | Roman |
|---|---|---|
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Training photos
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