How to Train a German Shepherd Dog

Today’s post is about how to train a German Shepherd Dog. The German Shepherd Dog is a popular dog that is well proportioned and comes in various colors. This breed is often used as working dog as they are alert, bold and carry an unmatched loyalty to their owners.

In terms of learning how to train a German Shepherd Dog, you will be delighted to hear that they are highly intelligent dogs who are eager to learn. You may sometimes hear of German Shepherd attacks but what you should know is that the aggression and attack are only a result of poor breeding, handling or socialization. Because these dogs have a highly protective instinct, they do need a firm dog trainer who will also socialize them, preferably at an early age. Training a German Shepherd should involve positive reinforcement. With this positive reinforcement you will find that this breed will learn so easily it will surprise you (I often hear people learning how to potty train a German Shepherd in less than two weeks while other breeds may take up to 6 months).

Because of the ease of training a German Shepherd they are often used in numerous fields and activities including police dog, sniffing out drugs, agility, flyball and obedience. Aside from dog training, the dog has become an extremely popular show dog and family companion.

How to Train a German Shepherd Dog

Learning how to train a German Shepherd Dog is a must! This is not a small dog that can be left to its own wits with minimal (often annoying consequences). Because they are naturally dominant dogs, if you don’t control them they will control you.

Consistency is of up-most importance when training a German Shepherd. I know, you are probably getting sick of hearing me mention this on every how to train a dog post I write but that doesn’t change its importance. Because this breed is extremely smart, training is rather simple and pleasant task. If you reward your dog every time she does something right and correcting her every time she does something wrong is often enough to train this dog.

When learning how to train a German Shepherd Dog, you must also establish yourself as the pack leader early on. All dogs are more comfortable when they know their place in the pack and when you are on top, they will to your for guidance when needed. Just remember that this dog will test you position as the pack leader at one point or another. This can happen during training or any other time. The do have an instinct to try to better his pack position. During your dog training sessions, your dog may misbehave or ignore your commands. Use positive reinforcement and you’ll find your dog training sessions to be way more effective.

How to Train a German Shepherd Dog – Aggression

German Shepherds make great family pets when they trained are socialized properly. Dog aggression is not a usual characteristic of any breed but usually a result of lack of socialization and dog training. Having said that, German Shepherds are not Chihuahuas! They require a firm and consistent training to become stable adults.

A German Shepherd Dog may become aggressive due to its protective instinct. They can become suspicious and wary of strangers. If someone approached his territory un-welcomed by the owner, they maybe in for a surprise. Also, fear can manifest itself in snapping and biting. While some dogs may be submissive when afraid, the German Shepherd can often become more aggressive.

The best way to deal with German Shepherd aggression is training them at an early age. Learn how to properly train a German Shepherd Dog using the techniques found in this blog. Not only will they serve as basic dog obedience training commands, they will create a stronger bond between you and your dog and they will grow up to be stable family pets.

If you encounter aggressive behavior, don’t use rough methods to try to correct your dog. You need to correct the behavior using gentle techniques. Remember that when your dog is behaving calmly, reward her with treats and lots of praise, especially during the dog training session.

Socialization is an absolute must when learning how to train a German Shepherd Dog. A lack of socialization is one of the main reason why dogs may become aggressive. Enroll your German Shepherd in socialization classes, preferably at an early age. Make sure he meets lots of people, dogs and situations.

How to Potty Train a German Shepherd Dog

Potty training a German Shepherd dog is often easier than potty training other breeds. Having said that, the techniques are pretty much the same so I suggest you read my post on how to potty train a dog.

Using a crate will help reduce the amount of time it will take to train your German Shepherd. You can crate your dog at night and when you are not at home. Crate will teach your dog how to hold their bladder and as soon as you take out your dog from the crate, take her to the designated potty area and praise her when she does her business. If your dog does make a mistake, don’t punish her. Just show her the designated spot and you’ll be on your way to potty train a German Shepherd. Believe me, this dog can be potty trained in a matter of a few weeks.

How to Train a German Shepherd – A few steps to consider

I've listed a few steps that you can use to train your German Shepherd. Please note that you can you use these when learning how to train a dog, not just this breed.

1. Become the Alpha Dog as soon as possible. You need to establish yourself as a the pack leader as the German Shepherd is a strong willed dog who will try to assume this role if it’s filled.

2. German Shepherds are eager to learn in if you get their attention you will be surprised how quickly they learn. When learning how to train a dog (including this breed), start in an area free of distractions so you can have your dog’s undivided attention.

3. Be consistent when training your German Shepherd. If the rules are constantly changing it will slow down the dog training process because your dog will be confused and possibly even frustrated cause they can’t figure out how to please you.

4. Begin informally training your German Shepherd Dog as soon as they bring him home. At 8 weeks old, he should still be able to learn the basics of going to the bathroom outside and not biting etc.

5. You can begin leash training your German Shepherd at ten weeks old. She must learn to accept the leash at an early age to avoid leash training problems when she is an adult.

6. A part of training a German Shepherd Dog is going to obedience and socialization classes. This can be done when your dog is 4 months old and has had his vaccinations.

If you are looking for some more German Shepherd Dog information such as how to train a German Shepherd Dog to Fetch or how to train a German Shepherd Dog to sit then read the various posts found on this blog as they will help you.

Hopefully you’ve enjoyed reading my how to train a German Shepherd Dog article and stay tuned for some more great posts.

Cheers,

Berto