When is the appropriate time to start professional training?

Question
We have an 11 month old female GSD, Bella.  She does good with basic commands, but she's not great w/heeling on the leash.  We've got 4 kids under 8 years old that she adores and vice versa, has never once shown any agressive behavior.  She always shows submissive behavior, except that she jumps up to my husband and brother, but never to me orthe kids.  She listens to me without fail, but not hubby or brother when giving the same commands.  Now that she's over 60 lbs., trying to walk her on a leash is next to impossible for me, and it's important to us to have her trained thoroughly.  Did we wait to long, and is it a good time? Will she be receptive to the training? I've heard from a couple of GSD owners that waiting until their hip bones are well developed is important before starting serious professional training, since their prone to hip dysplagia.  Which is why we waited so long.  We had a Rotty that we trained at 12wks., and he had AKC papers and cost a bundle, but got H.D. and couldn't go on long walks, had to take pain meds and had to be put to sleep at only 10 years old.  Is there any truth to waitng?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Lisa,  Professional training will not bring out or cause HD.  You did wait too long.  I start them as young as 10 weeks old on the basics.  You shouldn't do any jumping or serious athletics until they are a year of age due to the bones setting, but basics like heeling, sitting, staying etc can start at a very young age.  HD is genetic, and will come out no matter what you do if they have the genetic tendencies towards it.  Hope this helps,

Dawn