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Idaho GSP — New Puppy Parent Guide

Everything you need to know to raise a confident, healthy German Shorthaired Pointer

Welcome to the Idaho GSP Family

Congratulations on bringing home an Idaho GSP puppy!
We’ve designed this guide to give you a clear, practical roadmap through your first days, weeks, and months with your new companion. German Shorthaired Pointers are intelligent, athletic, and deeply loyal — when you lay the right foundation early, you’ll have a lifelong partner on the trail, in the field, and in your home.

1. Understanding the GSP Breed

What Makes a GSP Special

German Shorthaired Pointers are known for:

  • High intelligence and quick learning

  • Natural hunting instincts

  • Strong athletic drive and endurance

  • Deep loyalty and affection for their families

  • A desire to have a job and stay mentally engaged

GSPs thrive when their owners commit to consistent training, structured exercise, and an active lifestyle.

2. Preparing for Puppy Pickup

What to Bring

  • Crate (medium or large size with divider)

  • Leash & adjustable collar

  • Puppy-safe treats

  • Bedding or a towel

  • Water bowl for the drive

  • A chew toy for comfort

What We Provide

  • Health record

  • Vaccination & deworming schedule

  • Microchip information (if included in your program)

  • Starter food

  • Idaho GSP puppy folder

3. The First 24 Hours Home

Your Puppy Will Be:

  • Tired from excitement

  • Unsure of their new environment

  • Looking for reassurance and routine

Focus on:

  • Quiet time

  • Gentle introductions

  • Short potty breaks every 30–45 minutes

  • Early crate association (not forced crating)

Keep the first day simple — calm, predictable, and safe.

4. Feeding & Nutrition

Recommended Feeding Schedule

8–12 weeks: 3 meals per day
12+ weeks: 2 meals per day

Food Guidelines

  • Use the same food we start them on for at least 7–10 days to avoid stomach upset.

  • If switching feeds, do it slowly (25% new food added every 2–3 days).

  • Fresh water available at all times.

Treats

Use only puppy-safe training treats. Avoid anything rawhide-based.

5. Crate Training

Crate training is one of the most valuable skills your puppy will ever learn.

Goals

  • Teach the crate as a “safe den”

  • Build independence

  • Prevent destructive chewing

  • Support potty training

Tips

  • Keep the crate in a quiet but central location

  • Never use the crate as punishment

  • Feed meals in the crate for positive association

  • Start with short sessions and increase duration gradually

6. Potty Training

The Idaho GSP Potty Method

  1. Take puppy out immediately after:

    • Waking up

    • Eating

    • Drinking

    • Playing

  2. Use a consistent phrase: “Go potty.”

  3. Praise instantly — don’t wait to get back inside.

  4. Expect accidents. Stay patient and consistent.

Most GSPs are fully reliable around 14–18 weeks with routine and structure.

7. Early Training & Socialization

Critical Socialization Window

8–16 weeks

Introduce your puppy safely to:

  • New people

  • Light noise exposure

  • Other vaccinated, friendly dogs

  • Car rides

  • Household routines

Training Priorities

  • Name recognition

  • Sit

  • Down

  • Come

  • Leash introduction

  • Bite inhibition

  • Calmness and impulse control

GSPs love structure — start early and keep sessions short (3–5 minutes).

8. Exercise Needs (By Age)

GSPs are high-energy, but puppies should not be over-exercised.

Guidelines

8–12 weeks: short play sessions indoors & safe yard time
12–20 weeks: controlled walks, early recall training
5–6 months: increased walks, start simple fetch
12+ months: running, biking, long hikes, and hunting prep

Avoid heavy jumping, forced running, or long-distance exercise until growth plates are mature.

9. Health, Vaccines & Vet Care

Vaccination Schedule

  • 6–7 weeks: First puppy shots (we complete this)

  • 9–10 weeks: Second round

  • 12–13 weeks: Third round

  • 16 weeks: Rabies (vet-administered)

Parasites & Deworming

Your puppy is dewormed before leaving. Continue with monthly preventatives recommended by your vet.

10. Grooming & Care

Routine Care

  • Weekly ear checks

  • Nail trims every 10–14 days

  • Bathing only when dirty

  • Brush coat weekly to reduce shedding

GSPs are generally low-maintenance, but consistency keeps them comfortable and healthy.

11. Mental Stimulation

A bored GSP is a destructive GSP.
Provide:

  • Food puzzles

  • Scent-based games

  • Basic obedience

  • Short training sessions

  • Rotating toys

Work their mind as much as their body.

12. Raising a Good Citizen

What We Recommend

  • Puppy obedience class

  • Leash manners training

  • Introduction to birds (if hunting)

  • Consistent boundaries at home

A well-trained GSP becomes the perfect family and outdoor companion.

13. Staying Connected With Idaho GSP

We’re here for you long after pickup day.

If you need help with:

  • Training

  • Nutrition

  • Health questions

  • Conditioning

  • Bird dog development

  • Scheduling a future puppy

Just reach out — you’re part of the Idaho GSP family now.

➡️ Explore our available litters or contact us today to reserve your next hunting and family companion from Idaho GSP.