4 Tips For Training a German Shepherd

German Shepherds are a beautiful breed of dog; strong, loyal, independent, and intelligent. The very traits them make them such amazing dogs can also make them particularly hard to train. Their breeding was for working as herders, guard dogs, and police work. Their independent natures of these dogs lead them to test and compete with their owners for dominance and for many first time dog owners this can be particularly challenging. However, these tips will help in training your German Shepherd.

1. Consistency!

The most basic, important, and probably most difficult part of training a German Shepherd, or any dog, is consistency. Decide how you want your dog to act then reward them when they do that. If they do not obey, punish (more on that later). This aspect of dog training has nothing to do with the dog, but everything to do with the trainer. Some trainers have found that the best way to consistently train their dog is to schedule time out to do that. For half an hour or maybe an hour a day, you focus solely on training the dog to obey the commands you wish for him or her to learn.

2. Reward Good Behavior

Imagine if you had a boss that would only condemn you when you messed up but never praised you for your successes. You wouldn't be too keen on listening to them would you? The same applies to dogs as well. Reward the dog when they obey. Change your voice to a warm, gentle, and happy tone to let the dog hear the emotions. Sort of like how you would speak to a child. You can pet them, give them a small treat, or what has been used by some police trainers, play a game of tug-o-war or fetch.

3. Punish Correctly

Rarely is there a need to slap or strike your German Shepherd. Disapproval can be shown in other ways. The first is to speak in a harsh, angrier voice. Your dog will feel the emotion. Next stiffen your hand as if it was a claw and press down firmly on the back of their neck. You're not trying to choke, mangle, or harm your dog. You're imitating how alpha males in the wild display dominance and show disapproval. Think of your hand as that alpha male's mouth.

4. Be Dominant

While we would prefer to fulfill our dog's wants, we not allow that kindness to be seen as a weakness. Dogs feel best in a pack where there is a definite strong leader. As the owner and trainer it is you who must consistently lead your dog and what the dogs views as your pack. There will be times when your German Shepherd will test the boundaries of your dominance and their role. When they do this it is your job to put them back into line. Please remember, this does not mean that you must be disrespectful or abusive to your dog. It means taking charge and leading.

Training a German Shepherd can be difficult, but it shouldn't have to be. Remember to consistent and dominant and to reward the good and punish the bad. You must lead your dog to the behavior you wish for them to have.