How to Train my German Shepherd like a Police Dog?
How to Train my German Shepherd like a Police Dog? ( Professional Dog Trainer Reviewed Guide)
One of many reasons why people own a dog is protection. And the best example of a guard or protection dog is a police dog. Now you may be wondering: How to train my German Shepherd like a Police dog?
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Naturally, German shepherds are guard dogs, and with one bark they can alert their owners to dangers. The ability of your dog to be a guard dog is further enhanced when it is trained like a police dog. However, if the dogs are not properly trained, they may become aggressive and get you into trouble. This is why it is advisable to first socialize with your dog and go for obedience training. This way you can take control of your dog. Then you can move to advanced training of making your dog like a guard dog. |
In this article, we will explain how to effectively train your dog like a police dog without encountering any difficulties. This article will explain the steps to be followed during training as well as mistakes to be avoided to prevent any mishaps involving bites or aggression.
8 Steps to Train your German Shepherd like a Police Dog
It takes a significant amount of effort, dedication, and patience to train a German Shepherd to work as a police dog. Below are the essential steps in shaping a German Shepherd into a capable police dog:
- Start with fundamental obedience training: Before starting police dog training, it is crucial to lay a solid foundation in basic obedience. Enroll your German Shepherd in an obedience class early on and thoroughly teach obedience commands. Ensuring your German Shepherd obeys commands consistently is essential. While the goal is serious, it is essential to make obedience training enjoyable for your dog.
- Teach your dog the "speak" command: Teaching your dog the "speak" command is the basis of police dog training. Begin by instructing your dog to "speak" loudly and confidently. When your dog responds with a bark, reward them with treats and ample praise.
- Introduce the "quiet" command: Once your dog has grasped the "speak" command, proceed to teach the "quiet" command. Utilize phrases like "quiet" or "enough." Immediately reward your dog with praise and treats when they cease barking.
- Enhance your dog's alertness: Invite strangers to simulate an intrusion into your home to enhance your dog's vigilance at home. When your German Shepherd barks, the trespasser should acknowledge the dog and withdraw, while you praise and embrace the animal. It is essential not to allow your dog to pursue the departing stranger. Offering generous praise for signaling a potential threat bolsters your dog's confidence.
- Training your dog in scent tracking: Scent tracking is a fundamental aspect of police dog training. Initiate scent tracking by teaching your dog to follow familiar scents, like their favorite toy or treat. Keep the scent hidden and encourage your dog to locate it. Gradually escalate the difficulty of hiding spots and the time intervals between hiding and searching for the scent.
- Teach your dog to respond to attack commands: Once your dog has mastered the "speak" and "quiet" commands, it is time to instruct them to attack on command. This constitutes defensive training. Begin by replicating scenarios where someone behaves suspiciously at your door. When your dog barks, introduce a verbal command like "watch," "get him," or "attack." This is the process for training your German Shepherd to respond to attack commands.
- Train your dog to be your protector: Shaping your German Shepherd into your protector essentially involves territorial training. A guard dog primarily safeguards your personal space. Does your dog already bark when strangers approach? Does he diligently survey your property? These are indicators that your dog is naturally territorial. You can nurture this instinct by training your dog to protect you further.
- Enroll your dog in advanced training: Once you and your dog have completed basic obedience training, continue progressing through more advanced levels, including tracking and agility. This comprehensive training approach will expand your dog's skill set.
Mistakes to Avoid When Training a German Shepherd like a Police Dog
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when training a German Shepherd to be like a police dog:
Skipping basic obedience training: It is essential to start with the basics, even for police dog training. Enroll your dog in puppy training classes to learn commands like sit, stay, and heel. These are the building blocks for good behavior. After basic training, consider advanced classes like tracking and agility to expand your dog's skills.
Using fear and intimidation: Avoid training methods that rely on fear or intimidation. Fearful dogs may not respond well in non-threatening situations. Corrections have their place in training, but your dog should never be afraid of you. Respect and obedience can be achieved without fear.
Neglecting socialization: Socialize your German Shepherd puppy from the beginning. Exposure to various people and animals helps them distinguish normal from unusual situations and prevents fear. Take your puppy to different places and allow them to interact with others safely.
Having unrealistic expectations: Understand that training takes time and patience. Building a well-trained dog involves multiple elements, including boundaries, structure, accountability, advocacy, discipline, and fulfillment. Don't rush or push your dog beyond their capabilities. It's a gradual process that requires months of relationship-building and training.
Not using positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is crucial in police dog training. Reward your dog with treats or enthusiastic praise during obedience training. This positive feedback encourages your dog to focus and learn.
Lack of consistency: Consistency is vital in training your German Shepherd. Use the same commands and rewards consistently to help your dog understand what's expected and what they will receive in return.
Impatience: Training a German Shepherd for police work demands patience. Don't become frustrated if your dog doesn't grasp a command immediately. Continue practicing and rewarding good behavior, and your dog will eventually learn.
Conclusion
Training a German Shepherd to be a police or guard dog takes time, patience, and doing things regularly. Make sure to introduce them to different situations and people, teach them to obey your commands, and reward and praise them when they do well.
Help them develop their natural abilities and give them tests to see how they are doing. Over time, you can have a well-trained German Shepherd to keep your family and property safe, like your very own security system.
