German Shepherds make amazing pets and are overall quite easy to train. But they have certain natural characteristics and instincts that are hardwired into their brains. If you are trying to train your GSD, you need to know a little about the breed and what motivates them. There are also a few important things to keep in mind when training your GSD. Keep reading to find out more!
German Shepherd Dog Training Tips
Although there are many different approaches to training a dog, it is important to use positive reinforcement methods focused on building a strong relationship between you and your dog. Here are some tips for successful German Shepherd training:
Understanding the Characteristics of a German Shepherd
One of the defining characteristics of German Shepherds is their intelligence. They learn quickly and like to be challenged, making them well suited to training and learning new skills. German Shepherds are also known for their loyalty and protective nature towards their owners and family members. They can be wary of strangers and are often used as guard dogs for this reason.
Additionally, GSDs are active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behavior. They excel at activities such as agility, tracking and obedience, and make excellent companions for active individuals or families.
Start with basic training and socialization
Basic training and socialization are equally important. Basic training, such as teaching your dog to sit, stay, come, and walk on a leash, is essential for all dogs. After all, they are not “programmed” to know what we expect of them. Fortunately, German Shepherds are particularly intelligent and love to learn, which is why they often excel in obedience training.
In addition to the basics, you’ll also want to work on your puppy’s socialization skills as early as possible. Socialization introduces your dog to new people, animals, and environments. This is important for all dogs, but particularly for German Shepherds, who can be reserved or even protective of their owners.
Fortunately, you can often combine socialization and basic training by enrolling in a puppy class. Look for a class that teaches the 7 essential commands all dogs should know. These include:
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Heel
- Down
- Leave him
- Disabled
These commands not only help you raise a well-behaved dog, they also lay the foundation for more advanced skills and tricks. If you can’t sign up for a puppy training class, I recommend checking out Zak George’s dog training video series, starting with the one below:
Use positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is exactly what it sounds like: a training method that uses rewards to reinforce your dog’s good behavior. This is an effective way to train your German Shepherd because it helps build trust and strengthen your bond. Here are some ideas for positive training methods:
- Treats: One of the most common forms of positive reinforcement is using treats as a reward for good behavior. To use small, bite-sized training treats that your dog loves and give it to him immediately after adopting the desired behavior.
- To rent out: Dogs love to please their owners and thrive on praise and attention. Use positive, happy tones when praising your dog for good behavior, such as saying “Good boy!” » or “great job!”
- Break: Many dogs love to play, so incorporating play time into your training sessions can be a great form of positive reinforcement. Use a favorite toy as a reward for performing the desired behavior.
- Clicker training: Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement that uses a click to signal to your dog that he has done something good. Pair the click with a treat or other reward to reinforce the behavior.
- “Rewards of life:» In addition to treats and playtime, there are many other “life rewards” that can be used as positive reinforcement. This could include going for walks, meeting other dogs, or being allowed to play in the park.
Whatever reward you choose, remember that positive reinforcement should be used consistently and immediately after performing the desired behavior. This will help your dog associate the behavior with the reward and increase the likelihood that he will repeat the behavior in the future.
Avoid punishment-based training
On the other hand, punishing your dog for bad behavior is not an effective training method. This can create fear and anxiety and harm the relationship between you and your dog. Please never hit your dog. This isn’t training, it’s abuse, plain and simple.
While we’re on the subject of punishment-based training, I also recommend abandoning the whole notion of “being the alpha.” This entire training philosophy was based on a misunderstood study of wolves. There have been so many things research proving that dogs are NOT beasts of burdenat least not in the way we thought for years.
Keep your workouts consistent but short
One of the most important things you can do when you start training Dog Breed, is to be consistent. For a German Shepherd, this is particularly important. Consistency provides guidelines and expectations – things that a German Shepherd will respond to.
However, it is important to avoid overloading your dog with long sessions. Dogs have a short attention span, so it’s important that training sessions are brief and focused. Ten to fifteen minutes per session is usually enough.
Provide physical AND mental stimulation
German Shepherds are active dogs who need a lot of exercise, yes. But they also need A LOT of mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Here are some great “brain games” to try with your GSD:
- Puzzle toys: Puzzle toys are a great way to mentally challenge your dog and provide a fun and stimulating activity. These toys often involve hiding treats or kibble inside and encouraging your dog to figure out how to get to them.
- Agility Training: Agility dog training involves teaching a dog to navigate a variety of obstacles such as tunnels, jumps, and weaving poles in a timed, structured environment. It’s a fantastic way to combine physical and mental exercise.
- Change of scenery: A change of scenery can also help mentally engage your German Shepherd. Take them for a walk somewhere new or visit a dog park to treat them to new sights, smells and experiences.
- Interactive game: Play time is important for dogs, and interactive play can also help engage their minds. Playing games like fetch, hide-and-seek, or tug-of-war can help keep your German Shepherd mentally stimulated.
- Nose job: German Shepherds have an excellent sense of smell and nose work activities can be a great way to engage their minds. Hide treats or toys around your house or garden and encourage your dog to find them using his nose. Watch the video below for tips on how to start nose work with a German Shepherd.
Seek professional help if necessary
If you feel you are not experienced enough or able to provide the training your German Shepherd needs, look for a local coach who can take on the task. The trainer will work with your dog and then help you learn to apply the principles they have taught to your German Shepherd.
A trained and well-behaved German Shepherd can be one of the best dogs for your family. German Shepherds are intelligent, loving and loyal. Their protective instincts make them a good choice if you want a pet as well as a guard dog. Proper training is an important part of ownership and is essential for you and your dog.
Do you have any other German Shepherd dog training tips? Share below!