How To Train A German Shepherd To Attack in 7 Easy Steps [New Guide]

No doubt, the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are obedient, loyal, and easy to train. Little wonder why they are effective in different roles: police dogs, service dogs, guard dogs, dog agility, etc.

A major temperament that attracts the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) to most folks is its aggressiveness and ability to attack. However, not every owner knows how to train his German Shepherd Dog (GSD) to attack.

If you belong to this category or you are looking to get a German Shepherd Dog (GSD) soon, then you should read this post to the end. I described the steps on how to train a German shepherd to attack.

Without any further ado, let’s get started!

Step 1 – Make Him Your Buddy

Before you can train your dog to obey your commands, you must first earn his trust and respect.

The best way to achieve that is to make him your buddy. Consciously spend time with your dog so that you both can bond.

Some things you can do to bond with your dog include:

•  Go on long walks together

•  Play toys and games with your dog

•  Offer him treats whenever he behaves well

•  Let him sit by you for most of the day, etc.

The earlier you bond with your dog the better. Start making these efforts when your dog is still a puppy.

As you bond with your dog, he gets more comfortable with you and learns to trust you. Hence, it becomes easy to obey your commands.

Step 2 – Begin With The Basics (How To Train A German Shepherd To Attack)

Sure, you want to train your dog to attack but that is not where you start from.

You start by training him to obey basic commands like sit, stop, come, etc.

Learning these simple commands will make it easier for him to learn the tough ones later.

It’s just like when a child starts school for the first time, he is not taught algebra, is he?

Similarly, when training your dog, begin with simple commands.

While you are at it, use one-word commands. Using phrases can get your GSD confused even though he’s an intelligent dog.

For example, instead of ‘get off’, use ‘off’, ‘down’ instead of ‘lay down boy’, and so on.

When your dog masters these simple commands, then he is ready for the tough ones.

Step 3 – Get Your Training Kit Ready

Before you proceed to train your dog to attack, you should get a training kit ready.

The kit comprises items that will help prevent injuries during training sessions.

A long leash, collar, dog bite sleeve tugs, full protection bite suit, and a doll are some items that should be in your kit.

Also, you will need the help of another human that will serve as an ‘intruder’ that your dog will attack.

Once your kit is ready then you are set to start the ‘attack’ training.

Step 4 – Train Your Dog To Attack (How To Train A German Shepherd To Attack)

Now that your dog has mastered simple commands and you have your kit ready, it’s time to train him to ‘attack’.

This is how to go about it:

• Start by putting on a pair of gloves
• Next, tap your dog’s face. This will cause him to grab the gloves. At this point, say the ‘attack’ command

Note: you can choose your ‘attack’ command from any language. The idea is to use something unique so that a stranger will not be able to command your dog to attack.

• Keep touching his face and giving the ‘attack’ commands.
• Now, try giving the command without touching his face. If he attacks, reward him with praise and treat.

If he doesn’t attack, go back to touching his face and issuing the command.

• Continue until your dog attacks when you simply give the command. Offer him treats as he obeys.
• Next, give him some distance and give the command. If your dog approaches you and attacks your glove, reward him with a treat.

And if he doesn’t, don’t get discouraged. Go over it again.

Step 5 – Train Your Dog To ‘Stop’ Attack

Now, you want to train your GSD to ‘stop’ attack on your command. Again choose a word for ‘stop’ that nobody else can easily use.

As your dog responds to the ‘stop’ command, give him treats.

Next, let your dog practice the ‘attack’ and ‘stop’ commands on a large padded doll or object.

Remember to reinforce his cooperation with treats!

Step 6 – Make It Real! (How To Train A German Shepherd To Attack)

Here’s the last stage of the ‘attack’ training. This time, call a friend to act as an intruder.

The goal here is to create a real-life scenario like when your dog needs to attack a ‘thief’.

This session will help your dog understand the negative vibes of an intruder. Encourage your friend to give the ‘act’ his best shot.

It is also at this stage that your dog will master the ‘stop’ command.

To avoid injuries, your friend should wear a full protection bite suit. Also, it is best for him to stay close to the door so that he can escape should your dog fail to stop the attack when he ought to.

As he acts, give your dog the ‘attack’ and ‘stop’ commands as you wish. Use different scenes to help your dog learn better.

Note: During these sessions, never be in a rush. Take things bit by bit. And never forget your goal – to train your dog to ‘attack’ and ‘stop’ the attack on your command.

Step 7 – Keep At It!

Training your GSD is quite tough but if you will get the most out of this training then you must be consistent.

Pick a convenient time when you will train your dog daily. This will help him master the skill and thus, stand a better chance to protect you both.

He should be a pro in 3 months or less.

Not just that, the more you practice this skill with your dog, the stronger the bond between you two. He will have no second thoughts about protecting you in the future.

On the other hand, if you make the training a one-time thing, he will forget all that he has learned and you’d have to start all over.

You wouldn’t want that, would you?

Conclusion

Training your German Shepherd Dog to ‘attack’ and ‘stop’ on your command is necessary to keep you both safe.

Though the training may be strenuous, it is worth your time. Plus, your dog and you will become close pals.

The steps shared above will point you in the right direction for this training. Be patient with your dog until he masters the skill.

This is where we’ll call it a wrap on our discussion on how to train a German shepherd to attack. I hope you enjoyed your read.

Now, I’d love to hear from you:

Do you have a German shepherd? Have you trained him to ‘attack’? What was it like?

Tell us in the comments section right now. And if you have any additional tips on how to make this training work, tell us too.

Before you leave, share this post with other dog lovers on your list, thank you!