Remember that you are the Alpha, and you are in charge. The relationship between a dog and his master is a very personal one and it is based on pack hierarchy. There must be a leader to give commands and discipline and if you are not up to the task then your German Shepherd training dreams are doomed to failure. Never allow your young dog to growl or act in an aggressive manner toward you without immediately challenging the behavior and disciplining the animal.

Early intervention means that you are securing your rightful role as pack leader. Grab your puppy firmly by the loose ruff of skin around the neck and give him a shake and blow a shrill whistle. Both of these will get his attention and help you regain control. Alpha dogs routinely punish disobedient pack members by grabbing the neck ruff and biting or shaking the offender. You must do the same with your pet.

This powerful breed can become your best friend or a horrible nightmare depending on the kind of German Shepherd training that is introduced. You must dominate your dog and let him know that you are giving orders and must be obeyed. Dogs appreciate structure and having a leader makes them feel happy and more secure.  Once you assume the role of pack leader you must stay in that role when you are interacting with your dog.

Remember an Alpha pack leader does not tolerate foolish disobedience when a command or instruction has been given.  Practice basic obedience lessons with your young puppy daily. Work on simple commands like Sit, Come and Stay in the early stages of the training process.

Be consistent at all times.  You should have some rules established about acceptable behavior for your new dog. If your dog behaves inappropriately you must discipline them quickly and firmly. Any type of disciplinary action should be carried out without yelling or anger being involved.

Do not let any disobedience slide because the dog will lose respect for you and will become more willful as he tries to usurp the role of pack leader. Make sure that the discipline is always the same because this makes it easier for the animal to associate the action with the consequences. The consistency of discipline and rewards will help your dog quickly learn acceptable and proper behaviors.

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German Shepherd training sessions will involve disciplinary measures but it should also include lots of praise and affection. Dogs appreciate those moments when their good behavior is noticed and rewarded.  This praise from the pack leader creates strong bonds of loyalty and friendship and your dog begins to feel that he is a part of your family “pack”. If you neglect the training of these large dogs it may be too late for you to correct behavior problems in the future and this could cause you to have to surrender your unruly pet to a shelter.