Shepherd dogs are extremely intelligent, loyal, and energetic. They thrive when given a proper structure and leadership. Dog obedience training can help develop a well-behaved and responsive shepherd.  Teaching some basic commands to your dog not only improves obedience but also strengthens your bond with them. In this blog post, we will delve into how training can transform your Shepherd dog into a well-mannered and confident pet. Read more below.

Why Dog Obedience Training is Crucial 

Shepherd dogs are natural herders and protectors. Training is essential for them as they have high energy levels. They may even develop behavioral issues due to lack of training and mental stimulation, such as excessive barking, jumping, and aggression. Training will channel their energy, giving them a sense of purpose. Here are some important benefits of teaching basic commands to your dog:

1. Better Communication

Your shepherd dog will learn to follow your guidance by understanding and responding to your commands. This will reduce confusion and allow them to learn desired behavior.

2. Enhances Safety

A well-trained shepherd is less likely to run into extreme situations such as chasing cars or approaching aggressive animals. 

3. Strengthens Your Bond

A positive reinforcement training method will improve the bond between you and your dog. Training sessions also enhance trust and cooperation.

4. Encourages Good Manners

Proper training is essential to prevent behavioral problems in your dog, ensuring that your pet is well-behaved.

5. Mental Stimulation

Shepherds are intelligent and hence they need to be engaged in activities that stimulate them mentally. 
 

Essential Commands to Teach Your Shepherd Dog 

1. Sit

The “sit” command is one of the most important commands you need to teach your dog. It develops patience and self-control in your dog, preventing impulsive behaviors such as jumping on guests or running out of the door.

Tips to Teach

• Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
• Move your hand upward so that your dog moves its head to follow the treat while their bottom lowers naturally.
• Once they sit, the command ‘sit’ and reward them with the treat.
• Repeat until they respond consistently.

2. Stay 

The “stay” command teaches your shepherd impulse control and reinforces discipline. This command is extremely useful in situations where you want your dog to stay in a place for safety reasons. 

Tips to Teach

• Ask your dog to sit.
• Hold your hand out, palm forward, and say, “Stay.” 
• Take a step back, return, and reward them if they remain in place.
• Gradually increase the distance and duration over time.

3. Heel

Shepherd dogs have a tendency to pull the leash because of their herding instincts. Teaching them this command will ensure that they walk calmly beside you without pulling the leash.

Tips to Teach

• Take your dog for a walk with a leash on.
• Say “heel” while keeping a treat near your leg. 
• Reward your dog when they follow your command.
• Correct pulling by stopping and resetting their position.

4. Come

The “come” command is crucial for your dog’s safety. Whether you are in any emergency or at the park, it will ensure that your dog returns to you promptly. 

Tips to Teach

• Begin with a leash and collar on your dog.
• Crouch down, open your arms, and say “come.”
• Reward them when they follow your command.
• Practice this tip in different surroundings to reinforce reliability.

5. Down

The “down” command helps your shepherd dog stay calm, reducing their stress and excited behavior.

Tips to Teach

• Hold your dog’s favorite treat in your hand and allow your pet to sniff it. 
• Slowly take the treat to the ground between their front paws.
• Say “down” once they lie down and offer them the treat.
• Practice this command consistently until they obey.

6. Leave It

This command prevents your dog from picking undesired or harmful objects. It prevents them from engaging in unwanted behaviors. 

Tips to Teach

• Hold a treat in both your hands.
• Show one hand with the treat and command “Leave It.”
• When your dog stops chasing the treat, reward them with the treat but with the other hand.
• Practice with different objects to teach them the command.

Basic training commands are important to transform your shepherd dog into a well-behaved companion. Start training your dog today.