Training a German Shepherd using German commands is a popular choice among owners, especially for police dogs, home protection dogs, and those participating in agility competitions. Using a different language can ensure your dog pays close attention to you without distractions. While it might seem challenging initially, training your German Shepherd with German commands can be simple with patience and consistency. You might even find that you learn the new phrases faster than your dog does.
Why Use German Commands?
There are several reasons to use German commands when training your German Shepherd:
- Tradition: German Shepherds and other breeds like Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Schnauzers come from Germany, where they are often trained using German commands.
- Authority: Many believe that German commands sound more authoritative than English commands, increasing the likelihood of the dog following instructions.
- Focus: Using a different language can help your dog focus and avoid distractions.
Getting Started
Before you begin training your German Shepherd with German commands, there are a few things you’ll need:
- A list of German commands.
- High-value treats like cheese or sliced hot dogs.
- A leash.
Consistency and patience are crucial during the transition. Here are some effective methods to help you achieve your goals:
Training Methods
The First Command Method
This method is ideal for puppies or dogs that don’t know any commands yet.
- Choose Your Words: Begin by creating a list of German commands you want to teach your dog and keep it accessible.
- The First Command: Start with “sit” (setzen). Show your dog a treat, move it over their head to lure them into a sitting position, and say “setzen” as soon as they sit. Then, give them the treat.
- Keep Practicing: Continue practicing and be consistent with the German command. Ensure everyone interacting with the puppy uses the same command.
- Move to the Next: Once your dog consistently sits when you say “setzen,” choose another command, such as “platz” for ‘down’ or “bleib” for ‘stay’. Teach these skills using any method, but replace the English commands with the German ones.
- Take it Outside: Once your dog regularly reacts to your German commands, test them with more distractions in an outdoor setting. Reward them heavily when they listen.
The Association Method
This method is effective for dogs that already know commands in English.
- Choose Your Cue: Begin by selecting the first command you want to transition to German, such as “sit,” which is “setzen” in German.
- Ask for a ‘Sit’: Start by saying the German command “setzen,” then give the English command “sit”.
- Treat the Right Behavior: When your dog sits, give them a treat. Keep practicing by saying the German word followed by the English command.
- Take Away the English: Once your dog starts to sit when you give the German command, remove the English command. Only give a treat when they sit for the new German command.
- Try Another Command: After successfully transitioning to “setzen,” try another command like “platz” for ‘down,’ following the same steps.
- Test Your Skills Outside: Once your dog listens attentively to German commands indoors, practice in more distracting environments like the dog park. Reward them each time they respond correctly.
The Key Commands Method
This method is suitable for those who only want their dog to know a few German words for competition or home protection.
- Define Your Commands: First, choose the specific words and commands you want to teach.
- Start Inside: Begin training the commands indoors with minimal distractions. For instance, you might want to teach your dog the agility command to jump, “hopp.” Start indoors without the distraction of other commands or people.
- Work the Command: Work with the new command until your dog responds to the German command each time.
- Practice with Friends: Before heading to the agility course, have friends try to distract your dog by saying the English version of your command. Your dog should only respond to your German command to get the reward.
- Real-World Trial: When you are confident that your dog is responding to the German command, test your cues in real-world situations, whether at the dog park or on the agility course. These German commands should serve as an immediate cue for your dog.
Essential German Commands
Here are some key German commands to get you started:
- Sit: Sitz
- Stay: Bleib
- Come: Komm
- Down: Platz
- Heel: Fuß
- No: Nein
- Good: Brav
- Fetch: Bring
Tips for Success
- Start Early: If you have a puppy, introducing German commands from the beginning can be easier since they don’t have pre-existing associations with English commands.
- Be Patient: Older dogs can learn new commands, but it may take more time and repetition. Use both English and German commands together initially, then gradually eliminate the English command.
- Consistency is Key: Use the same commands every time and ensure everyone interacting with your dog does the same.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they perform the correct action.
- Keep it Fun: Training sessions should be enjoyable for both you and your dog. Keep them short and engaging.
Pronunciation
Learning how to pronounce the German words correctly is an important part of training. If you are unsure, there are many online resources that can help you with pronunciation.
Advanced Training
Once your dog has mastered the basic commands, you can move on to more advanced training, including specialized commands for protection work and scent detection. Many commands are used for training police and military German Shepherds in professional contexts.
Conclusion
Training your German Shepherd with German commands can be a rewarding experience. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can unlock your dog’s potential and strengthen your bond. Remember to start with the basics, be consistent with your commands, and always use positive reinforcement. Good luck, and have fun training your furry friend!