Hello all,

We adopted a 6-week old GSP rescue puppy in late October and have been doing okay with him. "Otto" is our first GSP, and first puppy in 27 years (our other rescues have been adult dogs). At about four months, he now weighs about 26 pounds, and is doing well with basic commands like drop it, no bite, down, sit and come. Until a few days ago, he was doing well with "come" while outside, but suddenly changed his mind that he doesn't understand that command anymore; but, that is something that I need to adjust additional training to. Otto is a pet, and we do not intend to hunt with him.

We live in a rural environment, but are coming to the realization we need to have a fenced in area next to the house.

We are planning to use cattle panels (welded steel, 16' long x 51" high). Would you offer suggestions on how large the enclosure should be to give Otto enough room to  excercise in? The area we are thinking about is partly open with grass and the remaining area is wooded (hardwoods with lots of squirrels). Otto will have access to our covered porch leading out to the play yard.

Also, what type of outdoor toys should we provide him with in his play area?

Thanks, NanVA