How To Discipline German Shepherd Puppies
Training Tips of The Week
How To Discipline German Shepherd Puppies
Effective Training For GSDs
In this breakdown, we’ll explain what it takes to effectively discipline a German Shepherd during puppyhood.
Modern Canine Training
Classical vs. Operant Conditioning
Classical conditioning means working with your dog’s natural responses like:
- Barking
- Tail wagging
- Prey drives
Operant conditioning means working with trained responses like:
- Learning tricks
- Going into a crate
Positive vs. Negative Discipline
Positive discipline examples
Positive discipline is based on rewards, and associates good behavior with good things, like:
- Treats
- Pats
- Toys
- Playtime
- Praise
Negative discipline examples
Negative discipline is based on punishment, and associates bad behavior with bad things, like:
- Scolding
- Slaps or hits
- Shock collar
- Leash jerking
- Rubbing face in dog’s pee or poop
It’s worth noting that any kind of negativity can make your dog aggressive.
So, positive reinforcement training works best when disciplining your dog.
Training a German Shepherd Puppy
What To Expect
Given their energetic natures, German Shepherd puppies can be prone to unwanted behaviors like:
- Non-stop barking
- Whining
- Jumping
- Chewing
Add teething and potty training to the equation, and your pup only gets more uncomfortable and irritable.
So try to keep these tips in mind to help make life easier for you and your puppy during training and disciplining:
Use easy verbal cues for every need
Use easy verbal cues for every need, like:
- “No”
- “Stop”
- “Drop it”
- “Go potty”
Address discipline problems right away
When your dog exhibits undesirable behavior, correct it right away.
When your puppy exhibits desirable behavior, reinforce it right away.
Be sure your puppy’s other basic needs are met
Problem behaviors in puppyhood like barking and biting can actually be more about your puppy’s basic needs not being met.
Medical Issues
If you have tried everything but your puppy still exhibits problem behaviors, consider taking your puppy to the veterinarian.
But in most cases, with patience, persistence, and positivity, you and your GSD will get through the difficult puppyhood phase.
And build a closer bond as you do it.
To learn more, click here!
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ARTICLE OF THE WEEK
The Brindle German Shepherd
How Rare is This Coloration in GSDs?
Brindle patterns can be quite similar to “tiger stripes”.
Although the exact pattern can look very different depending on the dog’s genetics.
In fact, two brindle coated dogs can have two completely different coat patterns.
Click below to find out everything you need to know about the Brindle German Shepherd!
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FEATURED VIDEO
How To Crate Train German Shepherd Puppies
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We would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness for www.newbeginningsrescue.com.
This is a rescue charity that does amazing work to raise awareness for the thousands of GSDs needing homes across the USA.
They're a national rescue of 17 years and have a sister rescue in LA that is a GSD rescue as well.
They do need help getting the word out that they're trying to find fosters in all states.
They also need drivers to get these amazing dogs from point A to point B in those areas.
They help countless medical cases and heartworm positive dogs and always need donations from other animal lovers as well.
Please visit their website for more information and to find out how you can help!
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