So you have a new German shepherd. Whether he’s a puppy or an adult you rescued from your local shelter, I’m sure one of the first things on your mind is whether or not to take your new best friend to German shepherd obedience training classes.

On the one hand, you know that taking him to German shepherd obedience training will help socialize him with other people and dogs. It’ll teach him new tricks. The two of you will bond closer together. On the other hand, you have to consider the time and expense involved. There the time spent in class, commuting and practicing at home plus the cost of the training and equipment.


Obedience training will quickly teach your dog specific commands. You’ll learn how to give him those commands and assert your dominance over him so he’ll clearly know who’s boss.

Both of you are going to training…not just your dog. It’s a job for the two of you. If you both train well, you’ll reap its rewards for the rest of your German shepherd’s life.

German shepherd obedience training is a big time commitment. It involves more time than just the hours spent in class. It’s a waste of time unless you practice at home. The most important thing isn’t the tricks your dog learns but for him to learn who is boss. Alpha leadership is the foundation of successful German shepherd obedience training.

German shepherd obedience training will teach your dog to heel, sit, lie down, stay and speak. These basic commands will become the foundation for his learning more advanced tricks in the years to come.

No Biting or Barking

Your German shepherd obedience training instructor can help you solve both issues. It’s very important to stop your dog from nipping while it’s still young. What’s cute for a puppy can become dangerous with a full-grown dog.

Taking Your German Shepherd for a Walk

German shepherd obedience training can solve problems with going out for a “dog pull” instead of a “dog walk”. Your dog will learn how to heel close to you without any tension on his leash. He’ll also learn to sit at street corners and when you come upon other dogs.

Applying What You Learn in Class At Home

The time you spend in class is only the beginning. You both may learn things in class but it’s time wasted if you both don’t practice at home.

German shepherd obedience training class time is only the start. Your dog will learn basic tricks in the class, but if you must work on each lesson at home to keep control. You should be consistent and always show your dog who’s in charge.

Your dog will only do what it is taught to do. Be consistent and reassuring when you give him commands. Never waffle or your German shepherd will revert back to the way he was before obedience training.