German Shepherds are intelligent and loyal companions, known for their trainability and protective nature. Teaching your German Shepherd commands in German can be a rewarding experience, deepening your bond and tapping into the breed’s heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of the German language or simply want to add a unique twist to your dog’s training, understanding how to communicate effectively is key.
Why German Commands?
There are several reasons why you might choose to use German commands with your German Shepherd:
- Tradition: German Shepherds were originally bred in Germany, and using German commands can be a nod to their heritage.
- Exclusivity: Using a different language can help your dog focus on you, especially in distracting environments.
- Training: Many German Shepherd breeders and trainers use German commands exclusively.
- Fun: It can be a fun and challenging way to bond with your dog.
Getting Started with German Commands
Before you begin, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Consistency is key: Choose the German words you want to use and stick to them. This avoids confusion for your dog.
- Positive reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and affection to reward your dog when they perform the desired behavior.
- Patience: Learning a new language takes time, both for you and your dog. Be patient and don’t get discouraged if it takes a while for your dog to catch on.
- Pronunciation: Correct pronunciation is important for clear communication. Practice the words and listen to online resources to ensure you’re saying them correctly.
Basic German Commands
Here are some basic German commands to get you started:
| English Command | German Command | Pronunciation | Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sit | Sitz | (zitz) | German Shepherd sits on the ground. |
| Stay | Bleib | (blyb) | The dog stays in the position until you go to them. |
| Down | Platz | (plahts) | The dog drops to their belly and stops moving forward. |
| Come | Komm | (kohm) | German Shepherd moves forward to you. |
| Stop | Halt | (hahlt) | The dog stops its movement and stands still. |
| No | Nein | (nine) | German Shepherd immediately stops what they’re doing. |
| Yes | Ja | (yah) | Used when your GSD performs a command or behavior correctly |
| Wait | Warte | (vah-teh) | It tells the dog that you want them to wait for you |
| Good Dog | Braver Hund | (brah-ver hunt) | A general dog command for praising |
Training Methods
Here are two common methods for teaching your German Shepherd German commands:
The First Command Method:
- Choose your words: Make a list of the German commands you want to teach your dog.
- Start with “Sitz” (sit): Hold a treat and move it over your dog’s head to lure them into a sitting position. As soon as they sit, say “setzen” and give them the treat.
- Practice: Keep practicing and be consistent with the German command.
- Move to the next command: Once your dog consistently sits when you say “setzen,” choose another command, such as “platz” (down) or “bleib” (stay).
- Take it outside: Practice in different environments with distractions to ensure your dog understands the commands in various situations.
The Association Method:
- Choose your cue: Begin by choosing the first command you want to transition to German. ‘Sit’ is often a good choice. The German version is very close: “setzen.”
- Ask for a ‘sit’: Start by asking your dog to sit. Before you give him the English command, say the command in German.
- Treat the right behavior: When he sits, give him a treat. Keep practicing by saying the German word and then the English.
- Take away the English: Once you see him start to sit as you give the German command, remove the English command. Only give him a treat when he sits for the new German command.
- Try another command: Once has successfully transitioned to “setzen.” try another command like “platz” for ‘down’. Follow the same steps for all your commands.
- Test your skills outside: After your dog is now listening attentively to German in the house, try these new commands in areas where he is more distracted, like at the dog park. Each time he responds, give him a good treat.
Intermediate German Commands
Once your dog has mastered the basic commands, you can move on to more advanced commands:
| English Command | German Command | Pronunciation | Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crawl | Krabbeln | (Krah-beln) | The dog drops to its belly and crouches low to move forward |
| Stand | Steh | (Shtay) | German Shepherd stands on all four paws |
| Spin | Dreh dich | (Dreh deekh) | Tell them to turn either left or right in a circle |
| Drop It | Lass es fallen | (Lahs es fahlen) | Command them to release an item from the mouth |
| Leave It | Lass es liegen | (Lahs es leegen) | Stops them from picking up or following an object they are interested in |
| Speak | Bell | (Bel) | The dog barks for you |
| Quiet | Ruhe | (Roo-heh) | German Shepherd stops barking |
| Paw | Pfote | (Pfoh-teh) | It tells them to give their paw for a paw-shake |
| Watch Me | Schau mich an | (Show meesh ahn) | Commands them to keep eye contact with you |
| Heel | Fuß | (Foos) | Your German Shepherd comes to your left side |
| Fetch | Bringen | (Bring-en) | The dog gets an item and brings it back to you |
Tips for Success
- Keep training sessions short and fun: 10-15 minutes is a good length to keep your dog engaged.
- Be patient and consistent: It takes time for your dog to learn new commands.
- Use high-value treats: This will motivate your dog to learn.
- Practice in different environments: Once your dog understands the commands at home, practice in more distracting environments.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re struggling, consult a professional dog trainer.
Conclusion
Teaching your German Shepherd German commands can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can deepen your bond with your dog and impress your friends with your dog’s bilingual skills. So, grab your treats, practice your pronunciation, and get ready to “sprechen sie Deutsch” with your German Shepherd!