How To Train A German Shepherd

Big working dogs like the Rottweiler and German Shephard are always seen as aggressive, but if you learn how to train a German Shepherd, you will be surprised what a good dog it is.  Not only is a German Shepherd loyal to its owner, it is also very intelligent and can pick up commands and tricks easily.  Bear in mind that it is important to train a German Shepherd when it is still a puppy. However, if you have adopted an adult German Shepherd, it is never too late to begin the training.

Things you need to train a German Shepherd:

• Chain leash
• Collar
• Treats
• Whistle
• Rug

1. Teaching the "sit" command. Sitting on command is the most basic skill your German Shepherd should have.  Instead of using force to push down your dog, use treats to entice it. Hold the treat in your hand and above the German Shepherd's head.  If the dog wants the treat, it will naturally need to sit down.  When you give the German Shepherd the treat, pair it with a verbal "sit" command, so the dog will associate the command with a good memory.  Practice this every day until your German Shepherd knows it by heart.
2. Going on walks.  Certain dogs are easily stimulated and distracted by their surroundings that they will start pulling on the leash even if they are choking themselves.  If this is the case, you may need a chain leash to train a German Shepherd as the dog will be deterred by the poor sensation of chewing on the chain.  When the German Shepherd begins to pull towards one direction, turn around and lead him to the opposite direction.  Soon the dog will learn that it will not get what it wants if it struggles with its owner.  A whistle or a clicker is also very effective if you want to train a German Shepherd to focus on you instead of other moving objects on the street.  When your German Shepherd becomes overly excited with squirrels, cars, or other dogs, blow the whistle, step in front of the dog and give it a treat if it focuses on you. 
3. Teaching the "stay" command.  German Shepherds are by nature extremely curious and excitable.  Often they will jump on visitors, or even knock them over.  As such, it is important to train a German Shepherd how to stay at one spot even when strangers are entering the house.  Place a rug at the spot where you want your dog to stay.  Lead the German Shepherd to the rug and hold a treat down.  To get the treat, the German Shepherd will need to lie down in a relaxed position.  Once the dog relaxes, give it the treat and give it the "stay" command.  Ask your friends to help you train a German Shepherd by visiting you.  If the German Shepherd jumps up when it hears to doorbell, lead it back on the rug and repeat the command.  You need to train a German Shepherd to understand that if it doesn't calm down, it will never meet the stranger at the door. 

Tips: Practice the above techniques constantly.  Do not get frustrated if your dog does not get it immediately.  Your family members should also participate in training the German Shepherd so they will not spoil the progress.