Training a German Shepherd: reward-based tips for puppies and adult dogs

German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal and keen to work. Those qualities make them quick to learn, but also mean they get frustrated if they are bored or unsure what is expected. Good training gives a German Shepherd a job to do, builds a strong bond with you and helps them feel confident in the world.

Why reward-based training works

Dogs repeat behaviour that brings them something they like. Reward-based training uses this: when your dog does what you want, reward them straight away with a small tasty treat, a game or praise. Over time the behaviour becomes a habit.

Older advice told owners to be the "pack leader" or put the dog "in its place". This idea is outdated. Dogs are not trying to control their owners, and punishment, harsh corrections or telling off tend to make dogs anxious or fearful. A worried German Shepherd is harder to train, not easier.

A few principles make training easier:

• Keep sessions short. A few minutes several times a day works better than one long session.
• Reward quickly. Give the reward within a second or two so your dog links it to what they just did.
• Be consistent. Everyone in the home should use the same words and the same rules.
• Set your dog up to succeed. Start in a quiet place and only add distractions once your dog has the idea.
• End on a good note. Finish while your dog is still keen.

Socialisation: the most important early job

Socialisation means helping your puppy get used to the people, animals, places, sights and sounds they will meet in life. German Shepherds can be naturally watchful of strangers, so calm, positive early experiences matter a great deal.

• Introduce new things gradually and let your puppy watch from a distance first.
• Pair new experiences with treats and play.
• Include different people, friendly vaccinated dogs, traffic, household noises, car journeys and being handled.
• Watch your puppy's body language. If they seem worried, move further away and go more slowly.

Your vet will advise when your puppy can safely walk in public places. Until then you can carry your puppy to see the world and invite visitors to your home. A well-run puppy class that uses rewards is a good way to continue socialising.

Toilet training

1. Take your puppy outside often: after waking, after eating or drinking, after play, and at regular intervals in between.
2. Go to the same spot and wait quietly. You can say a cue word while they go.
3. Reward and praise as soon as they finish.
4. If you catch an accident in progress, calmly interrupt and take your puppy outside. If they finish outside, reward them.
5. Never tell your puppy off for accidents, including ones you find later. It teaches them to hide from you when they need to go, not where to go.
6. Clean accidents thoroughly so the smell doesn't draw them back to the same place.

Walking nicely on a lead

German Shepherds are strong, so loose-lead walking is worth practising from the start.

• Reward your dog often for walking beside you with a loose lead.
• If the lead goes tight, stop and wait. Move on when the lead slackens, or change direction and reward your dog for following.
• Don't jerk or pull the lead. It can hurt and doesn't teach your dog what you want.
• Practise in quiet places before busy ones.

A well-fitted harness can help while your dog is learning.

Coming back when called

A reliable recall keeps your dog safe. Start indoors or in the garden. Say your dog's name and recall cue in a happy voice, and reward generously when they come. Make coming back always worth it. Never call your dog to tell them off. Use a long line in open spaces until your dog's recall is reliable around distractions.

Exercise and brain games

German Shepherds were bred to work, so they need both physical and mental exercise. Without it, they may find their own entertainment, such as chewing, digging or barking.

• Give daily walks with time to sniff and explore.
• Use food puzzles, scatter feeding and "find it" games.
• Teach tricks and new skills. Short training sessions tire the brain as well as the body.
• Try activities such as scentwork, obedience or agility once your dog is fully grown.

Ask your vet how much exercise suits a growing puppy, and build up gradually.

Common problems and what to do

Mouthing and nipping

Puppies explore with their mouths. Keep toys handy and offer one whenever your puppy starts to mouth hands or clothes. If they keep going, calmly pause the game. Make sure they are getting enough rest, as overtired puppies often nip more.

Chewing

Give your dog safe chews and toys, rotate them to keep them interesting, and puppy-proof your home. Reward your dog for choosing their own toys.

Barking

Work out why your dog is barking: boredom, alerting, worry or wanting attention. Meet the underlying need, reward quiet behaviour, and avoid shouting, which can sound like joining in.

Being left alone

Teach your dog that being alone is safe by starting with very short absences and building up slowly. Signs of distress when left, such as howling, destruction or toileting, need patient help rather than punishment.

When to get help

If a problem isn't improving, or your dog shows fear or aggression, get help early. Look for a qualified trainer or behaviourist who uses reward-based methods, and ask your vet to rule out any health cause first.