[NAGDU] Training my own...again.

[Vivianna]

Hello all.
Well, it looks like i will be taking on the job, journey, task, etc.  of training my next guide.  I was hoping to go to a school and get a dog but, it looks like it will be a year minimum until i get my desired breed.  so, tuesday, i am off to look at several 4-5 month old dobermans.  I’d love to hear from those of you who have started from such a young dog some things to help me insure a suitable temperament.  I am well aware of the basics and these dogs have been used to loud noises, including gunshots and loud tractors and other machinery.  the breeder is very willing to work with me and is willing to exchange the pup if, after a couple weeks to a couple months the pup does not work out.  
even at 5 months a pup can learn basic obedience easily and begin the sidewalk work that will lead into guiding such as learning to sit patiently by my side at curbs, etc.  i have all summer to whip this little bugger into a guide.  lol.
i really, really didn’t want to start with such a young dog but, the breeders that i have talked to have said that it’s very rare that they will get a returned dog and, if they do, it’s because there was some problem that i most likely won’t want or need to take on.
thanks for any input on this matter.

Vivianna