Stubbornness can be a major issue for many dog owners, especially when it comes to dogs exhibiting frustrating behaviours like jumping, chewing, and barking excessively. I’ve personally experienced the challenges of dealing with a stubborn pooch, and finding effective training methods was key.
It’s crucial for dog owners to learn how to make their dogs listen and curb these behaviours, whether it’s during playtime, preventing chewing, or addressing the issue of going potty. When it comes to German Shepherd Dogs, their reputation for being stubborn is a well-known fact among dog breeds.
Understanding their nature and employing specific training methods tailored to their needs is essential. Having dealt with a few of these more stubborn individuals myself, I’ve found that a nuanced approach to dealing with their behaviour goes a long way. Implementing tips and finding effective ways to help them become less stubborn is key to a harmonious relationship between dog owners and their German Shepherd companions.
What Is Stubbornness?
Stubbornness in dogs is a unique personality trait that’s often misunderstood. Having dealt with various breeds, I’ve found it’s a trait characterised by their unwillingness to change their minds.
Unlike humans, dogs don’t act out of evidence or judgement; they respond to situations based on a mix of punishment and reward. Understanding this is crucial when teaching them right from wrong, as they may continue to act out if their stubbornness isn’t addressed. Regardless, a patient approach is needed to make them listen and change their behaviour.
Identify Stubborn Behaviour
Recently, my dog exhibited some stubborn behaviour that had me puzzled. He jumped up all the time, chewed up my slippers and frequently peed inside the house. Trying to identify the root cause, I realised I had been giving him too much food and a new snack. It seemed like he felt neglected, marking everywhere he goes.
Additionally, he kept barking at people and other dogs, thinking he was taking control. To address this, I’ve been channelling his excessive energy by playing in the backyard and providing mental stimulation. Now, he no longer wakes up at night and barks, feeling less ignored and more content.
Is Stubborn Behavior Normal In German Shepherds?
German Shepherds (GSDs) are among the most highly intelligent breeds, but their stubborn behavior and strong-minded tendencies can be challenging. In my experience with these independent dogs, understanding their limits and giving clear commands is crucial.
Owners need to establish a routine and environment that aligns with the lifestyle of these intelligent creatures. While they can be very obedient when trained well enough, they may become confused and more than likely push limits or defy commands if not satisfied. It’s essential to know the things to check and be mindful of their true nature to ensure a harmonious relationship with these remarkable animals.
Why Are German Shepherds Stubborn?
In my experience with German Shepherds, dealing with their stubbornness requires understanding the variety of possible causes. It’s crucial to list out common reasons for their resistance. In an article about tackling stubbornness in dogs, I would provide practical suggestions based on my expertise, offering effective ways to handle and overcome this trait.
1. German Shepherds think they can judge Everything
Having owned several German Shepherds over the years, I can attest to their remarkable blend of traits—intelligent, active, and incredibly strong. Originally bred as working dogs for herding sheep in Germany, their high levels of intelligence can make them a bit stubborn if not trained properly.
I’ve found that, at times, they may seem disobedient, but with the right approach, they quickly become loyal companions. Even today, in many countries, they are still used in various working roles, showcasing their enduring versatility.
2. German Shepherds have an independent character in their trait
Independence is a key aspect of the German Shepherd breed’s personality traits. I was once told that their headstrong nature stems from a deep-rooted sense of independence, making them exceptional human companions.
Through my experience, I’ve witnessed the stubborn side of my German Shepherd, challenging me to understand and navigate their unique personality traits.My German Shepherd’s innocent yet stubborn behavior became apparent during training sessions.
While on a walk, he would suddenly stop, his headstrong gaze fixed on something intriguing, refusing to heed my commands.The distractions ranged from the scent of an interesting object to the sounds of our neighbour’s pets.
It was both annoying and interesting, but truthfully, with sufficient patience and understanding, we managed to overcome these challenges. It’s a small price to pay for the rewarding bond that comes with these fascinating creatures—something worth keeping in mind for anyone considering the independent and stubborn nature of the German Shepherd breed.
3. German Shepherds are protective by instinct
As a longtime owner of a German Shepherd, I can attest to their protective nature. In our daily lives, their instinct to detect potential danger has proven invaluable.
However, without proper training and socialisation, GSDs can be misunderstood as aggressive or dangerous. My expertise lies in curbing undesirable behaviors, like excessive barking and lunging when approached by strangers. With the right approach, this stubborn breed can be a loyal companion, ready to save the day when needed.
4. German Shepherds need clear rules and boundaries
Having owned German Shepherds for years, I’ve learned that these intelligent working dogs thrive when rules and boundaries are made crystal clear. With my family, setting consistent expectations was crucial to avoid any destructive behaviors. It’s true, they can be a bit difficult to handle, but with patience and a firm hand, they can be shown the acceptable behaviors. From my experience, teaching a German Shepherd their role in the family is key to having a well-behaved and content canine companion. Starting from the beginning, instilling good canine citizenship pays off in the long run.
5. Your German Shepherd may have been misguided
German Shepherds are often labeled as stubborn, but my personal experience with the breed suggests that it’s more about a lack of overall training. When I adopted my German Shepherd, he was initially reluctant to explore and experience new things, likely due to past negative encounters with people and animals.
This made him less likely to follow commands, especially from strangers. Through consistent training sessions focusing on basic commands like sit, stay, and come, we established a foundation for good behavior.
The key was to build trust through strict obedience training, making these commands a part of his daily life. Dealing with a stubborn German Shepherd can be challenging, especially if they’ve been bullied or had negative experiences with people or animals.
Lack of exercise is a common cause of their reluctance to follow commands. Regular physical and mental activity is essential for them to release pent-up energy. In my case, incorporating an active lifestyle with plenty of outlets for physical exercise helped my adopted German Shepherd overcome destructive behavior rooted in frustration, boredom, and defiance. Connecting with him on a deeper level allowed him to thrive.
6. Lack of confidence
In my experience with German Shepherds, it’s crucial to establish clear leadership from day one. Being the alpha in the house is not about dominance but about providing a secure environment. When issues of defiance arise, it’s often due to a lack of clear roles. I’ve found that GSDs may take it upon themselves to fulfill the leader’s role, leading to bad behavior.
To avoid this, take the time to train, instruct, feed, play, and care for your GSD. By doing so, you’ll build a strong bond and address any stubbornness with positive reinforcement.Confidence is the underlying factor when dealing with a stubborn German Shepherd.
Avoid extremes like overprotection, as it can discourage your dog. I’ve learned that positive encouragement, praises, and even hugging go a long way in motivating a GSD. When teaching new tricks or introducing your GSD to new experiences, be patient and supportive. Punishment can make a GSD reluctant to try new things. Let your smart and loyal companion know that you love them, and you’ll find their stubbornness melting away.
7 Your German Shepherds do not have a strong bond with you
German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, but dealing with a stubborn one can be challenging. I raised two siblings, and the bond they shared was remarkable. As an owner, I encountered Sibling Syndrome, where puppies placed together tend to rely on each other, making them shy and withdrawn.
To help them reach their full potential, I had to be bold in breaking their nervous and uncertain tendencies. Separating them temporarily was tough, but it was necessary for them to mature and avoid severe fighting. Now, they’ve formed a strong bond within our human family.
8. Reinforcement of stubborn behaviour
Dealing with stubborn behavior in a German Shepherd can be a challenge. Once, my pup’s accidental reinforcement of refusing to come inside led to failed attempts of calling him back. No amount of tasty bribes or exciting toys worked.
In this situation, the ultimate lesson learned was to establish a strong command association. Through consistent calls and a pacifying action like a simple “plonk” with a bum down and a firm stare, the behavior gradually changed. Now, he associates the command with coming inside without the need for bribes.
9. Underlying health issues or pain
Dealing with a German Shepherd’s health issue can be challenging. Existing health issues may lead to disobedience or defiance, common signs of discomfort in dogs. I once had a German Shepherd showing unusual behavior, a clear indicator that something was wrong.
In my experience, multiple signs occurring simultaneously are a red flag, prompting immediate attention to avoid prolonged pain.In a recent case, my German Shepherd suddenly started acting unusually. More unfortunate circumstances unfolded as it became evident that it was ill.
The stubborn nature of these dogs can sometimes mask the signs, but once they start behaving differently, it’s likely a cry for help. Understanding these subtle cues has been crucial in addressing health issues promptly and providing the care needed to ensure a swift recovery.
What to do if my German Shepherd is Stubborn?
Having dealt with my German Shepherd’s occasional stubbornness, I’ve learned that their seemingly inflexible attitude towards training commands can be challenging. When my dog refuses to cooperate and shuts down, the good news is there’s more than one way to make them less stubborn.
I’ve found that modifying my approach and using different tips and methods can effectively deal with their attitude and encourage a more cooperative behavior. It’s a learning process for both of us, but with patience and persistence, we can find the right balance.
Start training early
Training a puppy can be a rewarding experience, especially with intelligent breeds like the German Shepherd. It’s crucial to start training early, ideally when the puppy is around eight weeks old. As a dog owner, I’ve found that being consistent and motivated during these early stages is key.
Positive reinforcement is vital for teaching basic commands like SIT and DOWN. Experienced breeders often recommend this approach, and I’ve personally seen positive results with my own obedient furry friend.
To increase a German Shepherd’s ability to carry out commands and reduce any defiance or stubbornness, it’s essential to invest time in their training. Positive reinforcement works wonders, especially when transitioning from easy commands to more challenging ones.
I’ve found “Training Your German Shepherd,” available on Amazon, to be an invaluable command book. Following the tips provided has significantly improved my dog’s skills and behavior, creating a harmonious environment.
Give clear commands
In my experience as a dog trainer, many owners face a common dilemma when dealing with puppies. It’s crucial to establish rules from the start, and while it may be tempting to let them get away with things, it’s imperative to set clear boundaries.
Treating your dog with love is essential, but it’s equally important to be firm in your approach. In my case, I’ve found that everyone, including the dog, benefits when owners are consistent in their commands. Eventually, allowing your dog certain liberties is acceptable, but a balance between love and discipline is key.
When it comes to positive commands, it’s vital to tell your dog what you want firmly but without being harsh. For instance, if you want your dog to do its business outside, don’t just say “don’t pee on the carpet.” Instead, order it to go outside. I’ve learned that dogs respond better to clear and positive instructions. In my business, I often see that owners who communicate what they want without ambiguity have happier and more well-behaved pets.
Provide lots of positive encouragement
In my experience with German Shepherds, I’ve found that negative reinforcement training can be counterproductive. Instead, focusing on reward-based training is key. These stubborn yet intelligent dogs respond better when they learn what you want them to do rather than what you don’t want.
In one case, my German Shepherd, Max, would often misbehave, but once I started using positive reinforcement, he quickly learned the desired behaviors. It’s all about understanding what your dog wants and using that as a tool to effectively train them.
When it comes to teaching commands to your dog, creating the right training session is crucial. Dogs, by nature, seek immediate feedback to understand what’s right or wrong. Incorporating various treats can make the puppy more motivated to obey commands.
I’ve found that different kinds of treats for different situations can enhance the behaviour you’re looking for. This approach not only makes the training process enjoyable for the pup but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.
Exercise your dog regularly
As an experienced dog trainer, I understand the challenges of dealing with stubborn behaviour in dogs, especially breeds like the German Shepherd. While training can sometimes feel boring, it’s crucial to find ways to make it enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
I’ve found that incorporating exercise into the routine is a game-changer. Regularly taking your German Shepherd outside for at least 1 hour a day not only helps prevent boredom but also addresses potential behavioural issues. In my years of working with these dogs, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-exercised pup is a happy and well-behaved one.
When it comes to German Shepherds, exercise is not just important; it’s a lifeline. I always make sure my clients understand the significance of their furry companions getting enough daily exercise. If you’re not currently able to spend that much time, consider enlisting the help of a dog walker.
Whether it’s a leisurely walk or an energetic game of fetch, these activities not only give your dog the physical exercise they need but also provide mental stimulation. This has been my go-to reference for ensuring that these majestic adult dogs lead fulfilling lives, free from the boredom that often leads to behavioural issues.
Be Patient With Your Dog
German Shepherd is a breed that I’ve had the pleasure of working with extensively. Obeying comes naturally to them, but building a strong bond is crucial for a good dog. Spending quality time by playing, walking, and simply staying together fosters a deeper connection.
It’s essential to approach training with an open mind and understand their unique personality. Working with them, you’ll find that they not only learn commands right off the bat but also develop a keen sense of obeying. In my experience, the more time you invest in caring and working with a German Shepherd, the more they become attuned to your commands.
When dealing with a stubborn case, like yours truly, a consistent approach to training is key. Even the most stubborn dogs can learn to behave with the right guidance. It’s important to be patient and understand that training sessions may take time. In fact, it’s a fact that they may not obey exactly as you want right away.
Instead, spending more time on a consistent and patient approach is much more likely to yield the desired results. So, don’t give up—your German Shepherd just needs a bit more time to understand and respond to your commands.
Ensure that its diet is right
When I started looking for the right dog food for my German Shepherd (GSD), I was unsure where to begin. There’s something about the wide array of options on Amazon and Chewy that can be overwhelming. I considered a different approach and found specialized dog food designed specifically for GSDs.
That’s when I realised that not all dog food is the same, and one should not be feeding their canine companion just any food. It’s crucial to get something tailor-made for their needs, and my experience taught me that exploring beyond generic options is key for the well-being of our furry friends.
Give Them Work
Having raised a German Shepherd myself, I can attest to their hard-headed yet lovable nature. It’s crucial to ensure they’re treated fairly and placed in the right place to showcase their incredible skills. These dogs are not just pets; they are born for jobs.
From herding and guarding to scenting and retrieving, their excellence extends beyond household chores. Establishing a routine is key; these working dogs thrive when they know what jobs they have each day. Assigning a few specific tasks around the house makes them feel like they’re in the best-known environment, and trust me, a happy GSD is a joy to have around.
Things to consider
Having spent a couple of years training my own German Shepherd, I found that trying various approaches helped me discover they’re less stubborn than some might think. Establishing a good understanding between us proved crucial in causing positive behaviour changes. In my experience, it’s essential to mention specific commands and use positive reinforcement to make training sessions more useful for both the owner and the dog.
When it started being stubborn
German shepherds are known for their intelligence in training, but they can be a bit stubborn. In my experience, it’s crucial to use rewards rather than punishment. When my German shepherd, Max, wouldn’t listen, punishing him only stopped his learning process.
I had to consider his perspective and gradually rectify his behavior by starting the training process again, ensuring he didn’t feel punished but instead encouraged to continue. It’s essential to be patient and understanding; otherwise, they may forget everything else around them and resist being trained.
When it is stubborn
German Shepherds are known for being stubborn, but with the right approach, they can become well-trained companions. In my experience, it’s crucial to listen to your dog and adapt your training methods to their individual needs. I’ve found that providing just the right amount of rewards at the right times is key.
Training in distracting environments is also essential; it helps them generalize commands and improves their overall obedience. For example, when my German Shepherd, Max, was fed at different times, he learned to be patient and focused, even in situations where distractions abound. This approach makes it more likely for them to succeed, as they’ve learned that responding to commands is necessary, no matter the context.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing stubborn behavior in German Shepherds requires a nuanced understanding of their unique traits and a tailored approach to training. While their intelligence and independence can make them challenging, consistent and patient efforts, along with positive reinforcement, can foster a harmonious relationship. Identifying the root causes, such as lack of confidence, mistreatment, or the need for clearer rules, is essential. Providing mental stimulation, regular exercise, and a well-balanced diet contribute to a happy and well-behaved German Shepherd.
FAQs
Are German Shepherds naturally stubborn?
German Shepherds are very intelligent and easy to train dogs. They show obedience while training and Socialization. Obviously they can make great family pets. However , They can be stubborn at sometimes and they need proper training
How do you break a stubborn German Shepherd?
Training a stubborn German Shepherd requires a lot of patience and consistency. Try to use Positive reinforcement with treats and praise for actual desired behavior. Break down the commands into short pieces and gradually increase the complexity of a Command. Always Try to practice in different environments to reinforce the Commands
Are German Shepherds hard to control?
You know,The German Shepherd is a Powerful dog that needs an owner who has a lot of patience, deep understanding, and knowledge of how to stay in control with their behavior. Some are over friendly and some others are at the other of the scale making them wary of strangers or very aggressive
How fast can German Shepherds learn?
If you have the ability in training the dog and you would train your dog once a day, then most common commands can be learned easily in a week or two. But to keep those commands updated then you would need to work your dog at least once a week on short duration