The most natural instinct of the German Shepherd Dog is to protect. Normally, it will protect its owner and the home. This often manifests itself as lying near the owner with its back to them, facing into the most open space so that it can observe the surroundings and any approach. This is also a sign of a relaxed and comfortable German Shepherd. The instinct to protect can also be a clue to actions which are sometimes wrongly intepreted as aggressive.
The Need For Consistent Training
Given their size, intelligence and reputation training of the German Shepherd (or GSD) breed must be carried out correctly and consistently to avoid poor dog behavior becoming habitual when they are older.
German Shepherds require a good deal of exercise, but even exercise of a routine nature is usually fine for the German Shepherd, as this breed enjoys routine. Exercise should not be overly strenuous prior to the dog being six months old because their body is still developing.
GSDs are relatively easy to train, compared to most dog breeds. They will learn basic commands quickly, especially if trained by the consistent use of simple and distinct verbal commands, each of which should be coupled uniquely with an accompanying gesture of the hand or arm. Importantly, the German Shepherd will adhere to commands much more readily than would be natural for say, a terrier.
The Intelligent German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the most naturally intelligent dog breeds. Hence it is preferable to move through the basic command training and teach them more complicated activities at an early stage, mainly to provide them with the stimulus and enjoyment that they seek.
For a pet dog, this could include fetching a newspaper or chasing, fetching and releasing a ball or toy when instructed. With a German Shepherd, early non-strenuous forms of these exercises can be started from three months of age with care and developed through the first year of their life.
Using Early Life Stages
Exercise of a German Shepherd should increase from around eight months of age. Running and climbing, surmounting obstacles and passing simple tests are the ideal form of activity by the time they are entering their second year. From about 18 months they will enjoy taking on more rigorous training and GSDs in public service are trainee working dogs by this time.
By the time they mature at around three years, if trained in the distinct phases described above, a German Shepherd will create years of mutual enjoyment for dog and owner.
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