Training - Commands
As mentioned earlier in the book, you need to set some general rules and learn to be consistent. So, not only will your German Shepherd be learning new things, but you will also be learning new things. You will be learning how to communicate with your pet.
Whistling is a good way to gain your pet’s attention. You should only associate one command with one type of behavior. What this means is that you should only use whistling for positive actions, or positive commands, such as ‘come to me, I have something important for you to learn’, or ‘come to me, we are going to the park for some fun’.
By associating one command with one type of action, or response, your dog will grow up with clear boundaries. In terms of negative actions, or negative commands, such as needing to get stop your German Shepherd from attempting to eat off of someone’s plate, you should use the soft, yet firm approach.
As mentioned previously, a loud noise, such as a rolled up newspaper on your own hand, or a firm word spoken in a deeper tone, will help establish a kind, yet definite message to your German Shepherd. Ensuring that your commands are distinct, consistent and separate from one another will make your pet learn quickly and help set the boundaries early in the owner/pet relationship.
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