Teaching your German Shepherd tricks is more than just a fun pastime; it’s a powerful way to strengthen your bond, enhance their intelligence, and improve overall behavior. This guide explores 20 exciting tricks, from basic commands to more unique actions, that you can teach your canine companion.
The Benefits of Trick Training
Trick training offers numerous advantages for your German Shepherd. It provides mental stimulation, which is crucial for this intelligent breed, helping to prevent boredom and associated behavioral issues. Regularly engaging in training sessions also reinforces your leadership and builds a deeper connection between you and your dog. Furthermore, many tricks can be adapted to improve your dog’s obedience and responsiveness in everyday situations.
Foundational Tricks for a Smarter Dog
Before diving into complex tricks, mastering a few foundational commands will make subsequent training much smoother.
Speak and Hush/Quiet
- Speak: To teach your dog to bark on command, get them excited, perhaps by showing them a treat. As they become energetic, give the “speak” command. Reward them with the treat the moment they bark. Consistent practice will help them associate the command with the action.
- Hush/Quiet: This is a highly practical trick, especially if your dog already knows “speak.” Let your dog bark a few times, then give the “quiet” command. Reward them immediately when they cease barking. This is particularly useful for managing barking at the door or other triggers.
Beg
If your dog has mastered the “sit” command, “beg” is relatively easy. Have your dog sit, then hold a treat above their head. Most dogs will naturally lift their front paws. As you raise your hand, give the “beg” command. Reward them once they perform the action correctly.
Shake and High Five
- Shake: Have your dog sit. Say “shake” and gently take their paw, shaking it briefly before giving a treat. After a few repetitions, present your hand and give the command. Your dog will likely offer their paw in anticipation of a treat.
- High Five: Building on “shake,” have your dog sit and give the “shake” command. Gradually raise your hand higher with each repetition until it’s at their head level. Then, flip your hand over and say “high five.” They’ll offer their paw out of habit from “shake.”
Wave/Salute
This trick also stems from “shake” and “high five.” Have your dog sit and give either command. When they offer their paw, move your hand away and give them a treat. After a few times, switch the command to “wave.” Eventually, they will wave without your hand being present.
Advanced and Fun Tricks
Once your dog has a solid grasp of the basics, you can explore more entertaining and challenging tricks.
Fetch
For a dog that enjoys retrieving, “fetch” is a classic. Show your dog their favorite toy and toss it a short distance. Instead of chasing them if they run off, call them back to you. Reward them with a treat when they return the toy. Consistency is key to teaching them to bring it directly to you.
Put Away Toys
This practical trick teaches your dog to tidy up. Give your dog a toy and lead them to their toy box, saying “put it away.” If they need encouragement to drop the toy, offer a treat. Reward them only when the toy lands in the box.
Dance
If your dog knows how to “up” or stand on their hind legs, dancing is a natural progression. Have them stand on their hind legs, then say “dance” while gently guiding them a few steps. Reward them for holding the position and moving with you.
Army Crawl
This trick requires careful execution, especially on rough surfaces. Start with your dog in a “down” position. Let them smell a treat, then drag it slowly across the floor, giving the “crawl” command. Reward them for every few inches they crawl.
Kiss
While most dogs enjoy licking, training a precise “kiss” requires specific steps. Hold a treat near your face and give the “kiss” command. The moment their nose touches your face, reward them. This teaches them to target a specific spot rather than just licking.
Play Piano
This adorable trick involves your dog tapping piano keys. Have your dog sit on a piano bench. Give the “shake” command over the keys. As they tap the keys, reward them. Transition the command to “piano” and eventually have them tap keys on their own.
Walk Backwards
This useful trick can help guide your dog away from dangerous situations. Have your dog stand still. Hold a treat over their head and say “back.” Reward each step backward. You can gently nudge them with your leg if they struggle.
Fetch a Drink from the Fridge
This complex trick requires a dog that won’t raid the fridge. Attach a rope to the fridge handle and encourage your dog to pull it open. Reward them. Then, teach them to close it and retrieve a specific item, like a drink.
Prayer Time
Begin with your dog in a “sit” position, then have them jump up onto your forearm, holding the pose. Gradually increase the duration they hold the position. Next, have them place their paws on your forearm and hold a treat between their paws, giving the “pray” command.
Sing Along
If your dog is already vocal, teaching them to “sing” along to music can be easy. Howl or sing along to music yourself, giving the “sing” command. Reward your dog when they join in.
Slalom
This trick enhances agility and coordination. Use training poles and guide your dog through them with a treat. Gradually increase speed and reduce your physical guidance until they can navigate the poles with just a verbal command.
Take a Bow
Start with your dog standing. Hold a treat at their nose and slowly move it downwards, giving the “bow” command. Keep the treat close to their body to encourage their hindquarters to stay up. Reward them when their chest touches the ground.
Spin
Lure your dog into a spin with a treat held in front of their nose. Give the “spin” command and move your hand in a circular motion. Reward them for completing a full spin. Be mindful not to let them spin too fast to avoid dizziness.
Play Dead
This trick is easier if your dog knows “down” or “roll over.” Have your dog lie down. Use a command like “bang” and coax them to roll onto their side with a treat, mimicking playing dead. Reward them for holding the position.
Final Thoughts on Trick Training
Mastering these tricks requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Always prioritize your dog’s safety and well-being during training sessions. Enjoy the process of learning and growing with your German Shepherd, strengthening your bond with every successful trick.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your pet’s health or treatment.
