Historically, German Shepherds have been bred primarily for use as herders and guard dogs. Barking is one of the behaviors they use to carry out these jobs. Hence, you could say German Shepherds have been "bred to bark." But if your pet German Shepherd is an excessive barker, this behavior may be not only a nuisance to you and your neighbors, but can result in getting you evicted from your residence or create other legal issues that can upset your happy home.
Things You'll Need
- Dog treats
- Dog toys
- Lead
- Anti-barking collar
Instructions
Establish yourself as the Alpha dog. German Shepherds have strong personalities, so start early to assert yourself as the leader of her pack. Each time you play with your pup, roll her on her back, exposing her belly. This is the "submissive position" for dogs, and lets her know you are in control.
Exercise with your German Shepherd. This energetic breed requires at least one good workout daily. Physically interactive activities, such as playing fetch or taking a long walk together will meet his need for exercise and bonding time, which will reduce his tendency to bark.
Teach your German Shepherd the "down" position and use the command when she barks. Dogs rarely bark when laying down.
While she is sitting, hold a treat in front of her face and move your hand quickly down to the ground, saying "down" as you do it. If she does not lay down to retrieve it, try again, starting with your dog in the "sit" position. Reward her immediately when her belly hits the floor down. Praise her verbally ("Good down"), release the treat, and give her a pet.
Play mentally stimulating games to alleviate boredom. Play hide-and-seek by placing a treat just a few feet from the dog. Gradually increase the distance. Increase the difficulty by hiding a treat around a corner of an adjourning room, then by hiding it behind or under furniture
Apply an anti-barking collar to your German Shepherd if nuisance barking remains a problem. Remove any other collars before fitting the anti-barking collar on your dog. Any of the three types of anti-barking collars--citronella, ultrasonic or electronic--will automatically issue an aversive response when he barks, and he will learn that barking yields an undesired response.