German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and energy. While these traits make them excellent companions, they can also lead to challenges if their energy isn’t properly managed. If you’re looking to bring a sense of calm to your German Shepherd’s life, you’re in the right place. This guide provides effective strategies to help your German Shepherd learn to be calm, balanced, and well-behaved.
Understanding the German Shepherd Temperament
Before diving into training, it’s important to understand the typical temperament of a German Shepherd. They are naturally energetic and intelligent dogs that need both physical and mental stimulation. Without enough activity, they can become bored, anxious, and even destructive.
Key traits of a German Shepherd include:
- High energy levels: They require regular exercise to stay happy.
- Intelligence: German Shepherds are quick learners, which makes training easier.
- Loyalty: They form strong bonds with their families and can be protective.
- Prey drive: Their instinct to chase can sometimes lead to excitability.
Creating a Calm Environment
A calm environment is crucial for training your German Shepherd to relax. Reduce potential distractions during training sessions. This means turning off the TV, minimizing noise, and choosing a quiet space where your dog feels secure.
Basic Obedience Training
Sit: The “sit” command is a fundamental skill that helps your German Shepherd learn self-control.
- Hold a treat in front of your dog’s nose.
- Move the treat over their head, encouraging them to look up.
- As they follow the treat, their body should naturally lower into a sitting position.
- Say “sit” as they are sitting, and reward them with the treat and praise.
- Repeat this several times a day until they understand the command.
Down: Teaching your dog to lie down is another excellent way to promote calmness.
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Hold a treat in front of their nose and slowly lower it towards the ground.
- As your dog follows the treat, guide them into a lying position.
- Say “down” as they lie down, and reward them with the treat and praise.
- If your dog stands up, gently guide them back into the sit and repeat.
Stay: The “stay” command teaches your German Shepherd to remain in one place, building their ability to focus and resist distractions.
- Start by asking your dog to sit or lie down.
- Hold your hand up in a “stop” gesture and say “stay.”
- Initially, only ask them to stay for a few seconds, gradually increasing the duration as they improve.
- Reward them for staying in place.
- If they move, gently guide them back to the original position and start again with a shorter duration.
Advanced Techniques for Promoting Calmness
Relaxation Protocol: The relaxation protocol involves a series of exercises designed to teach your dog that being relaxed is rewarding. This method helps them learn to settle down in various environments.
Capturing Calmness: This technique involves rewarding your dog whenever they exhibit calm behavior. Keep treats handy and when you notice your German Shepherd lying down quietly or simply relaxing, calmly praise them and give them a treat.
Reverse Sit: Practicing the reverse sit exercise can help a reactive dog to stop focusing on environmental triggers.
- Move a little bit to give the dog some room so that you can demonstrate this technique.
- Treat delivery speed and deliberate movements are very important components to the reverse sit exercise.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential for burning off excess energy. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of exercise daily. This could include walks, runs, playing fetch, or even a visit to the dog park.
Mental Exercise: Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. German Shepherds need activities that challenge their minds. Puzzle toys, training games, and interactive play can help keep them mentally engaged and prevent boredom.
Socialization
Proper socialization is key to developing a well-adjusted and calm German Shepherd. Expose your dog to a variety of people, places, and situations from a young age. This helps them become more confident and less reactive in different environments.
Addressing Problem Behaviors
Hyperactivity: If your German Shepherd is excessively hyperactive, identify the triggers. Remove them from the source of excitement, speak calmly, and redirect their energy.
Anxiety: If your dog suffers from anxiety, create a safe space where they can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. This could be a crate, a bed, or a quiet corner.
Leash Reactivity: If your German Shepherd reacts strongly to other dogs on walks, practice leash training techniques. Keep a safe distance from other dogs and reward your dog for calm behavior.
Consistency and Patience
Consistency is key to successful training. Use the same commands and techniques every time, and be patient with your dog. It takes time and repetition for them to fully understand what you’re asking. Celebrate small victories and remember that every dog learns at their own pace.
Professional Help
If you’re struggling to manage your German Shepherd’s energy levels or address specific behavioral issues, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you and your dog succeed.