Training a German Shepherd using German commands is a popular choice among dog owners, particularly for those involved in police work, home protection, or agility competitions. Many German Shepherds come from Germany, and some trainers there use German commands. Also, German commands often sound more authoritative than English ones, which can help your dog pay attention. With consistency and patience, teaching your German Shepherd German commands can be a rewarding experience.
Why Choose German Commands?
- Traditional Approach Many German Shepherd breeders and trainers use German commands exclusively, so starting with German can be a natural fit.
- Distinctiveness Using a different language can help your dog focus on you, especially in distracting environments.
- Brevity and Clarity German commands are often short and sharp, which can prevent any misinterpretation, making it easier for your dog to understand.
Getting Started
If you’re thinking about teaching your German Shepherd commands in German, here’s what you need to get started:
- A list of German commands.
- High-value treats.
- A leash.
Three Effective Training Methods
Here are three methods to help you train your German Shepherd using German commands:
The First Command Method
This method is ideal for puppies or dogs that don’t know any commands yet.
- Choose Your Words Create a list of German commands and keep it accessible.
- The First Command Start with “setzen” (sit). Lure your dog into a sitting position with a treat, and as soon as they sit, say “setzen” and reward them.
- Keep Practicing Stay consistent with the German command, and make sure everyone interacting with your dog uses the same command.
- Move to the Next Once your dog consistently sits when you say “setzen,” introduce a new command such as “platz” (down) or “bleib” (stay). Use any training method, but replace the English commands with the German ones.
- Take it Outside Practice the commands in more distracting environments to test how well your dog has learned them.
The Association Method
This method is effective when transitioning a dog that already knows commands in English to German.
- Choose Your Cue Start with a command like “sit,” which is “setzen” in German.
- Ask for a ‘Sit’ Say the German command “setzen” before giving the English command.
- Treat the Right Behavior Reward your dog when they sit.
- Take Away the English Once your dog starts to sit when you give the German command, stop using the English command.
- Try Another Command After successfully transitioning to “setzen,” try another command like “platz” for ‘down’.
- Test Your Skills Outside Practice the commands in more distracting environments.
The Key Commands Method
This method is suitable for those who only want their dog to know a few German words for specific purposes.
- Define Your Commands Choose the specific commands you want to teach.
- Start Inside Begin training in a quiet environment. For example, teach “hopp” (jump) without distractions.
- Work the Command Practice the new command until your dog responds to it consistently.
- Practice with Friends Have friends try to distract your dog by saying the English version of the command. Your dog should only respond to the German command.
- Real World Trial Test your commands in real-world situations.
Essential German Commands
Here are some basic German commands to get you started:
| English Command | German Command | Pronunciation | Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sit | Sitz | Zits | Dog sits on the ground |
| Stay | Bleib | Blyb | Dog stays in position until released |
| Down | Platz | Plahts | Dog drops to their belly and stops moving |
| Come | Komm | Kohm | Dog moves toward you |
| Stop | Halt | Hahlt | Dog stops its movement and stands still |
| No | Nein | Nine | Dog stops what they’re doing |
| Yes | Ja | Yah | Used when the dog performs correctly |
| Wait | Warte | ‘vaʁtə | Dog waits for you |
| Slow | Langsam | ‘laŋzam | Dog slows their speed |
| Good Dog | Braver Hund | ‘bʁaːfɐ hʊnt | Praising the dog |
Tips for Success
- Consistency Use the same commands every time.
- Patience Be patient, as every dog learns at a different speed.
- Positive Reinforcement Reward your dog with treats and praise when they perform the correct behavior.
- Practice Practice regularly in different environments.
Potential Challenges
- Transitioning from English If your dog already knows commands in English, help them transition to German by pairing the commands initially.
- Confusion Avoid confusing your dog by using different words for the same command.
Level Up
As your German Shepherd progresses, you can introduce more complex commands. These commands are often used in Schutzhund (protection dog training), agility, and other advanced activities.
By following these methods and staying consistent, you can effectively train your German Shepherd using German commands. This approach not only enhances their obedience but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.