How do you teach a German Shepherd to follow the close command at home? - briefly
To train a German Shepherd to follow the "close" command at home, start by consistently using a specific verbal cue and accompanying it with a hand signal, such as extending your arm towards yourself. Reward the dog immediately with treats or praise when they respond correctly, gradually reducing rewards as the behavior becomes habitual.
How do you teach a German Shepherd to follow the close command at home? - in detail
To teach a German Shepherd to follow the "close" command at home, it is essential to approach training with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this:
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Choose a Consistent Command: Decide on a specific word or phrase that you will use for the "close" command. Consistency is crucial in training, so ensure all family members use the same command.
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Start with a Calm Environment: Begin training in a quiet and distraction-free environment. This could be your living room or kitchen, where your German Shepherd feels most comfortable.
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Introduce the Command: Stand a short distance away from your dog, hold a treat close to its nose, and say "close" clearly and firmly. As you move closer to your dog, take small steps backwards while keeping the treat at nose level. Your dog should follow the treat, moving towards you.
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Reward Immediately: When your dog takes a step or two towards you, praise them enthusiastically and give them the treat immediately. This positive reinforcement helps your dog associate the "close" command with a rewarding action.
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Gradually Increase Distance: Once your dog is comfortable following the "close" command over short distances, gradually increase the distance between you and your dog when giving the command. Continue to praise and reward your dog for every successful attempt.
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Add Distractions Gradually: As your dog becomes more proficient with the "close" command in a quiet environment, start introducing distractions such as toys or other family members. This helps your dog learn to follow the command even when there are minor distractions present.
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Practice Regularly: Consistency is key in training. Make sure to practice the "close" command with your German Shepherd regularly, even after they have mastered it. Short, frequent training sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones.
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Generalize the Command: Once your dog has a solid understanding of the "close" command at home, start practicing in different environments such as the backyard or on walks. This helps your dog generalize the command to various situations.
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Be Patient and Positive: Training can take time, and it is essential to remain patient and positive throughout the process. Avoid punishing your dog for not following the command immediately; instead, break down the training into smaller steps if necessary.
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Monitor Progress: Keep track of your dog's progress and adjust your training methods as needed. If you notice your dog is struggling with a particular aspect of the training, consider going back to previous steps and reinforcing them before moving forward.
By following these detailed steps and maintaining a positive and patient approach, you can effectively teach your German Shepherd to follow the "close" command at home.