train your german shepherd like a pro
Welcome to our in-depth guide on training your German Shepherd! These intelligent and versatile dogs are known for their loyalty and eagerness to learn, making them ideal candidates for a wide range of training activities. Whether you’re starting with a puppy or working with an adult dog, our step-by-step approach will help you build a strong foundation for a well-behaved and happy German Shepherd.
Establishing a Strong Bond
1
Build Trust
- Daily Interaction: Spend quality time with your German Shepherd through play, exercise, and positive interactions.
- Consistent Care: Ensure regular feeding, grooming, and health check-ups to build a sense of security.
2
Create a Positive Training Environment
- Designate a Training Area: Choose a quiet, distraction-free space where your dog can focus.
- Gather Supplies: Use a collar or harness, leash, treats, and toys that will motivate your dog.
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Train your dog using the same techniques used by the service dog training industry!
Socialization
1
Expose to Various Environments
- Controlled Outings: Take your dog to different places such as parks, busy streets, and pet-friendly stores.
- Meeting New People and Animals: Arrange playdates with other dogs and interactions with different people.
2
Introduce New Experiences Gradually
- Different Surfaces: Let your dog walk on various textures like grass, gravel, and concrete.
- Novel Sounds: Expose your dog to different noises such as traffic, household appliances, and other environmental sounds.
Basic Commands
1
Sit
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Move the treat upwards, allowing your dog’s head to follow and its bottom to lower.
- As soon as the dog sits, say “Sit” and reward with the treat.
- Repeat the command and reward several times, gradually increasing the duration before giving the treat.
2
Stay
- Open your palm towards your dog and say “Stay.”
- Take a step back, then return and reward your dog if it remains in place.
- Gradually increase the distance and duration.
3
Come
- Put your dog on a long leash in a distraction-free area.
- Crouch down, call your dog’s name followed by “Come.”
- Gently pull the leash if needed, and reward immediately when your dog comes to you.
4
Reinforce Commands
Always reward desired behaviors with treats, praise, or playtime. Use the same command words and gestures every time.
Advanced Commands
1
Heel
- Start with your dog in the “Sit” position next to your left side.
- Hold a treat in your left hand and say “Heel.”
- Begin walking, encouraging your dog to stay by your side, and reward frequently for staying in position.
2
Leave It
- Place a treat on the ground and cover it with your hand.
- Say “Leave it” and wait for your dog to lose interest.
- Reward your dog for not attempting to take the treat.
3
Shake Hands
- Have your dog sit and gently lift one of its front paws.
- Say “Shake” and reward immediately.
- Repeat until your dog offers its paw on command.
4
Roll Over
- Start with your dog in the “Down” position.
- Use a treat to guide your dog’s head towards its shoulder, encouraging it to roll.
- Say “Roll over” and reward when your dog completes the roll.
Happy Training!
Training your German Shepherd is a rewarding journey. By following these steps and maintaining consistency, patience, and positivity, you’ll foster a well-behaved and confident companion. Happy training!
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The K9 Training Institute was formed to improve the relationship that dog owners around the world have with their pets. They teach a large number of dog owners every year on the very best ways to train their dogs based on our own research on animal behavior.