Teaching your German Shepherd new tricks is a fantastic way to strengthen your bond, provide mental stimulation, and enhance their overall obedience. Beyond the basic commands, engaging in trick training can be incredibly rewarding for both you and your canine companion. Here are 20 fun and sometimes unusual tricks that you can teach your German Shepherd, categorized for easier learning.
Basic Obedience Tricks
These foundational tricks build upon basic commands and are often the stepping stones to more complex behaviors.
Speak and Hush/Quiet
Teaching your dog to “speak” on command can be achieved by getting them excited, perhaps with a treat. When they bark out of excitement, give the command “speak” and immediately reward them. Once your dog masters “speak,” teaching “hush” or “quiet” becomes simpler. Let them bark a few times, then command “Quiet” and reward them as soon as they fall silent. This is particularly useful for managing excessive barking.
Shake and High Five
If your dog already knows how to sit, teaching “shake” is straightforward. Have your dog sit, say “shake,” and gently take their paw, offering a treat. Gradually, they’ll offer their paw when you extend your hand. To teach “high five,” start with the “shake” motion, gradually raising your hand to head level. Then, flip your hand over, and with the command “high five,” your dog will naturally lift their paw.
Beg
With your dog in a sit position, hold a treat above their head. Most dogs will instinctively lift their front paws. Use the command “beg” as you raise your hand. Reward them when they perform the action correctly.
Advanced and Engaging Tricks
These tricks require a bit more coordination and understanding, offering greater mental challenges.
Fetch
This classic trick requires patience, especially if your dog isn’t naturally inclined to retrieve. Get your dog excited about their favorite toy and toss it a short distance. Instead of chasing them if they run off, call them back. Reward them when they return with the toy, gradually encouraging them to bring it directly to you.
Put Away Toys
This useful trick can be taught by showing your dog their toy box. Present a toy and say “put it away” as you guide them towards the box. Reward them when they drop the toy inside. With consistency, they’ll learn to tidy up their belongings.
Dance
If your dog knows a “sit up” command, teaching them to “dance” is a natural progression. Have them hold the sit-up position, then coax them to move with you while saying “dance.” Reward them for staying with you.
Army Crawl
Start with your dog in a down position. Use a treat to lure them forward, close to the floor, with the command “crawl.” Reward any progress, gradually increasing the distance they need to crawl. Be mindful of the surface to prevent discomfort.
Kiss
For a loving gesture, teach your dog to “kiss.” Hold a treat near your face and say “kiss.” Reward your dog when their nose touches your face. This encourages a gentle nuzzle rather than an overwhelming lick.
Play Piano
Have your dog sit on a bench near piano keys. Use the “shake” command over the keys, rewarding them when they hit a key. Transition to the command “piano” and eventually have them play multiple keys.
Walk Backwards
With your dog in a “stay” position, use a treat held over their head and the command “back” to encourage them to step backward. Nudge them gently if needed, praising and rewarding each step.
Fetch a Drink from the Fridge
This advanced trick involves teaching your dog to pull a rope to open the fridge, retrieve a specific item (like a toy or a bottled drink), and close the door. This requires significant training and should only be attempted with a well-behaved dog.
Prayer Time
Have your dog sit, then jump up onto your forearm, holding the position. Reward them for holding longer durations. Then, coax them into a position with their head between their paws using a treat, and give the command “pray.”
Sing Along
If your dog is vocal, they might pick up “singing” quickly. Howl along to music and use a command like “sing.” This trick is best suited for environments where noise is not an issue.
Slalom
Using slalom poles designed for dogs, guide your dog through them with a treat. Gradually increase speed and decrease pole distance as they master the weaving motion. This enhances agility and coordination.
Take a Bow
From a standing position, lure your dog’s nose down towards the ground with a treat, using the command “bow.” Keep the treat close to their body to help them maintain a bowed posture. Reward them when their chest is on the ground and they return to standing.
Spin
Use a treat to lure your dog in a circular motion with the command “spin.” Reward them for completing a full spin. Be cautious not to encourage excessive speed, which could lead to dizziness.
Play Dead
This trick is often easier if your dog knows “down” or “roll over.” Have your dog lie down. Use a command like “bang” and a hand gesture (like pointing fingers), coaxing them to roll onto their side with a treat. Reward them for holding the position.
Important Considerations for Trick Training
When teaching any trick, always prioritize your dog’s health and safety. Ensure the training environment is safe and that commands are introduced gradually. Positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, is key to successful and enjoyable trick training. Remember that consistency and patience are your greatest allies in helping your German Shepherd master new skills.
