German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. These qualities make them excellent candidates for protection training. Teaching your German Shepherd to attack on command can enhance their natural guarding abilities, providing you with an added layer of security and peace of mind. However, it’s crucial to approach this training responsibly and ethically, focusing on control and obedience. This article will guide you through the process of training your German Shepherd to attack on command, emphasizing safety, control, and the importance of a strong bond between you and your dog.
Building a Foundation of Obedience and Socialization
Before you even think about attack training, your German Shepherd needs a solid foundation of obedience and socialization. A well-behaved dog is a safe dog, and obedience training is paramount for controlling aggressive behaviors.
Basic Obedience: Enroll your dog in obedience classes or train them yourself using positive reinforcement techniques. Focus on essential commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and heel. The “come” command is especially important, as it allows you to call your dog back in any situation.
Socialization: Expose your German Shepherd to a variety of people, dogs, and environments from a young age. This helps them become well-adjusted and reduces the likelihood of unwarranted aggression. Socialization is key to ensuring that your dog can distinguish between a genuine threat and a harmless stranger.
Developing Defense Skills
Once your German Shepherd has a solid foundation in obedience and socialization, you can start developing their defense skills. This involves teaching them to respond to specific commands that trigger their protective instincts.
Pairing Verbal Commands: Choose a unique verbal command for “attack” and “stop”. To avoid confusion, trainers often use words from a foreign language that are unlikely to be used accidentally. For example, you could use “Fass” (German for “attack”) or another foreign word.
Using a Training Mitt: Put on a thick dog attack glove and tap your German Shepherd on the face until he grabs the mitt. As he does, give the attack command and reward him for his response. This helps him associate the command with the action of biting.
Introducing a Release Command: It’s equally important to teach your German Shepherd to break off an attack on command. Choose another unique verbal command for “release” or “stop,” and reinforce your dog for ceasing the attack when you give the command. Consistency is key to teaching your dog that the release is part of the command.
Practicing with a Protected Assistant: Enlist the help of an experienced dog handler who can act as a decoy. The assistant should wear safety gear, including a padded dog attack suit, and approach you and your dog in a controlled environment. Have the assistant act aggressively, and then give the “attack” command. After a few moments, give the “release” command. Practice this repeatedly in different scenarios to ensure that your dog learns to obey the command to break off the attack.
Maintaining Control and Reinforcing the Bond
Throughout the training process, it’s crucial to maintain control and reinforce the bond between you and your dog. Remember, the goal is to teach your German Shepherd to protect you on command, not to become an aggressive liability.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and toys, to reward your dog for desired behaviors. This will make the training process more enjoyable for both of you and strengthen your bond.
Consistency: Be consistent with your commands and expectations. This will help your dog understand what you want and reduce confusion.
Professional Guidance: Consider working with a professional dog trainer who has experience in protection training. They can provide valuable guidance and help you avoid common mistakes.
The Importance of Responsible Training
Training your German Shepherd to attack on command is a serious undertaking that requires responsibility and commitment. It’s essential to consider the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them.
Legal Considerations: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding dog ownership and training. Some areas may have restrictions on certain breeds or training methods.
Public Safety: Always keep your German Shepherd under control in public places. Use a leash and muzzle when necessary, and be prepared to intervene if your dog becomes aggressive.
Ethical Considerations: Train your German Shepherd to protect you and your family, not to attack innocent people or animals. Teach them to distinguish between a genuine threat and a harmless stranger.
Schutzhund Training
Schutzhund training is a German dog training program that develops the German Shepherd dog’s most desirable characteristics. Dogs trained in Schutzhund are excellent companions in the home. The German Shepherd Dog should be approachable, quietly standing its ground, showing confidence and a willingness to meet overtures without itself necessarily making them. It should be generally calm, but eager and alert when the situation warrants. It should be fearless, but also good with children.
Schutzhund Training Commands: Schutzhund training involves specific commands in German. Here are a few examples:
- Fuss! (Foos): Heel!
- Hier! (Heer): Here! Come!
- Aus! (Ows): Out! Drop It! Let Go!
- Fass! (Fahs): Attack! Take hold!
Conclusion
Training your German Shepherd to attack on command can be a rewarding experience that enhances their natural protective abilities. However, it’s crucial to approach this training responsibly and ethically, focusing on control, obedience, and the importance of a strong bond between you and your dog. By following the steps outlined in this article and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can unlock your German Shepherd’s full potential as a loyal protector and companion.