By Sheeba & Zoey Team · 2 German Shepherds · 15+ Years GSD Experience

5 Simple Training Techniques for a Calmer German Shepherd

Living with two lively German Shepherds is as rewarding as it is tricky. Particularly true with Sheeba (my black-and-tan speedster) and Zoey (the long-coated smiley one). Much as I love their enthusiasm and smarts, they can be quite the handful at times. I’ve found that applying particular training techniques helps keep both calm enough.

The German Shepherd Difference

Simply put: Training must fit the unique traits of the German Shepherd Dog. Known for smarts and high energy, they need engagement beyond basic commands.

These dogs are super bright but have a natural urge to work. Without proper outlets for energy—chaos ensues quickly. Like when Sheeba learned to flush rabbits on hikes (she’s so fast she was back before Zoey knew what happened), showing me just how much energy needed channeling.

This breed needs structure like kids need bedtime stories. Routine helps them manage those instincts, feeds their brains too. So here are five training techniques to chill out your GSD.

Check out our Instagram @2germanshepherds for daily pictures and training tips — real stuff we do with Sheeba and Zoey.

1. Positive Reinforcement Training

The first technique is big: positive reinforcement. It rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad actions. Builds trust and encourages calmness — pretty much essential for peace.

Zoey showed me this works. We were on a walk, she saw a neighborhood kid she loves. Used to be she’d jump up in excitement (old habit). But I praised her every time she stayed chill, gave her treats. Now she grins at me instead, all because staying calm = treats!

How It Works:

• Praise Immediately: Give treats or praise right after they do what you want.
• Consistency is Key: Use this every time — if “sit” is your command, always reward it!
• Avoid Negative Responses: Yelling or scolding won’t teach them anything but anxiety.

This technique takes practice but really pays off over time! If you’re working on getting those positive vibes with commands like “sit” or “stay,” try doing three ten-minute sessions every day. You’ll see results; consistency makes everything familiar!

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2. Mental Stimulation Activities

Mental stimulation's crucial for calming your GSD because it gives their big ol' brains something to chew on! Boredom leads to barking or digging. Those are the things we're dodging here (right? Oh boy!). Think about it: if Sheeba doesn't have something engaging during the day while I'm at work, those barks echoing around get all too familiar...

This was especially noticeable around their sixth birthday when Zoey picked up barking at motorcycles while out on walks! Who knew moto-heads would bug her so bad? Finding ways to keep her mind busy has been key since then!

Mental Stimulation Ideas:

• Puzzle toys that dispense treats, like KONGs filled with peanut butter, are fun alternatives. Aim for two-three sessions weekly!
• *Hide-and-seek* games where one person hides while another distracts them go over well too—try once every other week! While it may take some practice initially, don't worry if they're confused; keep repetitions comfortable until they know what's expected!
• Consider hiding treats around the house or yard for them to sniff out. It's a fun exercise that engages their brain, and if you start in easy spots before moving to trickier ones, you'll have them eagerly hunting once a week. Sheeba and Zoey? They get totally into it, and it really does tire them out.

You might spot some calmness pretty soon after weaving these activities into your routine—fingers crossed!

3. Structured Routines

Setting up a structured routine is key for both Sheeba and Zoey. German Shepherds love predictability! With a daily schedule, they feel more secure and less anxious anxiety. I've noticed how having set times for meals, walks, playtime, and training sessions gives them something to look forward to—and it calms their nerves.

How to Establish a Routine:

• Morning Routine: Start the day with at least a 30-minute walk. It burns off some early energy—and sets a good mood for the day.
• Feeding Schedule: Keep feeding times consistent. I always feed Sheeba and Zoey at 7 AM and 6 PM so they know when meals are coming.
• Training Sessions: After meals, squeeze in short training sessions about three times a day, each lasting 10-15 minutes. This keeps training fresh and aids digestion!
• Evening Wind Down: Stick to a bedtime routine. We take one last 20-minute walk followed by quiet time together. That helps Sheeba and Zoey fall asleep better (and stay asleep).
• Weekend Adventures: Mix things up on weekends with special outings like long hikes or beach trips. We block off Saturday mornings for our 2-hour hike—both of them just can’t get enough!

By sticking to this routine, you'll create a calmer atmosphere for your German Shepherds. And hey, maybe even calm yourself a bit too.

4. Socialization Techniques

Socialization gets overlooked but it matters big time for a calmer German Shepherd. Sheeba and Zoey both benefit from meeting other dogs and folks in structured settings. This exposure lowers anxiety and teaches them how to act right in different situations.

Socialization Steps:

• Start Early: Got a puppy? Start socializing by 8 weeks old. This means controlled playdates with other vaccinated pups or gentle adult dogs.
• Group Classes: Sign up for obedience classes. Took Zoey to a beginner class that ran once a week for six weeks — made her way more confident and sociable.
• Regular Outings: Head to dog-friendly parks or cafes weekly. Sheeba loves our park trips where she mingles with all sorts of dogs and people.
• Doggy Meetups: Join local dog meetups or playgroups. We hit up a weekly meetup that lets Sheeba and Zoey interact with various breeds. It's really broadened their horizons (and ours).

Slowly ramp up the number of distractions and folks or dogs they meet. If your GSD shows stress signs (like cowering or barking too much), step back, try later. Each good experience adds to their overall serenity.

5. Physical Exercise

Don't skip out on physical exercise — it's vital for calming any German Shepherd down. They need regular, intense activity to burn off that extra energy. Learned firsthand: tired dogs equal calm dogs!

Daily Exercise Plan:

• Walks: Go for at least 60 minutes walking every day, broken up into two or three jaunts. I make sure Sheeba and Zoey get morning walks and another round in the evening.
• Playtime: Fit in play sessions twice daily at least. Games like fetch or tug-of-war work wonders for burning energy — I usually spend about 15-20 minutes on each session with them.
• Agility Training: Why not put together a mini agility course in your backyard or find a local class? We got into agility once a week — it's been fantastic for both their minds and bodies.
• Varied Activities: Change it up with activities like swimming, hiking, or biking to keep things lively. We often bike together for about 30 minutes in the evenings. It's their absolute favorite!

Mixing up their routine can keep it exciting. Adding challenges like hiking or swimming works wonders. Zoey really digs swimming at our local lake (her tail wags non-stop), and she's way more relaxed after splashing around all day!

6. Troubleshooting Common Challenges

Even with top techniques, you'll hit some snags along the way. Here are some of the common hiccups I've managed to get past.

Barking at Strangers

If your GSD barks too much at strangers, try using the “quiet” command. When they start barking, calmly say “quiet” and wait for them to pause. Once they stop, reward them with a treat. Gradually extend how long they need to stay quiet before getting a treat. I had to practice this with both Sheeba and Zoey during our park visits — starting small and working up to 30 seconds of silence each time.

Hyperactivity During Playdates

If your GSD gets too wound up on playdates, separate them for short breaks every 15 minutes. Use the break to practice commands like “sit” or “down.” This helps calm them while reinforcing training in an enjoyable setting. During these times, I throw in interactive toys to keep them occupied without over-stimulating.

General Anxiety

Notice any anxiety signs like pacing or whining? Create a chill-out spot — cozy corner with beds and toys works well for us. Whenever they're anxious, guide them there (or when thunder's rumbling). Playing calming music has helped Zoey especially during storms, and on extra-bad days, a Thundershirt gives that extra bit of comfort.

7. Cost Breakdown of Training Techniques

Training your GSD doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Here's roughly what you might shell out trying these methods.

Training Classes

• Group obedience classes: $150-$300 for a 6-week course.
• Agility classes: $100-$200 for a bunch of classes.

Puzzle Toys and Equipment

• KONG toys: $10-$20 each.
• Agility equipment: $50-$150 depending on the setup.
• Scent work kits: $20-$40 for starter kits. These can be great for keeping their minds engaged!

Routine Essentials

• Quality dog food: $50-$100 monthly, depending on your dog's size and dietary needs.
• Treats: $10-$25 per month.

Budgeting around $300-$600 for the first year can help cover training and routine essentials effectively. This spending is worth it for a calmer home and happier dogs.

Watch the step-by-step walkthrough on our YouTube channel.

8. Putting It All Together

Incorporate these five techniques into your daily routine, and you'll nurture a calmer, more balanced German Shepherd. Consistency and patience are key. Every dog’s unique; significant changes in behavior might take time. Adjust based on your dog’s response and needs.

Remember, Sheeba barks at bicycles while Zoey grins at motorcycles. Implementing these strategies has tremendously improved their happiness and behavior for me! Hope these tips help you too!

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