dog behavior training

In my experience, German Shepherds are one of the easiest dogs to train if trained from young, particularly if as the owner you make use of their natural characteristics.

The stages for training them from young are outlined in click here. Here we’ll look at some of the behaviors an owner might become accustomed to and some useful pointers on specific training tools for German Shepherd (GSD) training.

Strong chewable toys that contain “puzzles” and strong objects for GSDs to chase are both good investments. The toy helps distract them from chewing something else and the ball, ring or frisbee is key to channelling their chasing traits along the right lines before they are adults.

Their liking for a challenging obstacle will be clear when they are out exercising off the leash, but an obstacle course in the yard or garden will also prove stimulating to a German Shepherd. Hurdles, tunnels and different levels made of wood, plastic and metal, if space and materials are available, will be utilised and appreciated, and can be used as an occasional substitute for walking or more normally as a game associated with commands and training.

If they exhibit their natural trait for chasing animals, then they must be kept on the leash when near horses, sheep, etc, and a verbal command and tug on the leash or harness when showing signs of erring towards animal enclosures.

German Shepherds are unlikely to be passive and they don’t get scared. Interacting with other dogs they are clever, even wily and if trained properly from young will usually only react if provoked.

They are very versatile dogs, able to be very agile but at other times unusually relaxed and composed. Unlike many breeds, they are able to lie for long periods watching. At all times they can be seen to be protecting their owner and home, but usually almost as a sentry. They can often be seen patrolling boundaries early and late in the day, which is a natural instinct for GSDs.

Trained and socialized properly from young, their behavior towards visitors to the home can and should be trained from early. They will quickly learn the difference between friend and foe and will adapt to the combination of a unique hand gesture and vocal command for each. They are usually very good with children.

It is unnatural and not normal for a German Shepherd to bite unprovoked. Their bite is more of the crushing type relying on the considerable strength of their jaws, which bruises under a human skin, and it isn’t normal for them to apply such pressure beyond the puppy stage unless trained to do so.

For more advanced training of your German Shepherd, click here. Enjoy!