What "Make Life Easier" Tricks/Behaviors did you Teach Your GSDs?

[EnraaGygas]

Basically, what did you teach your shepherds that made life easier for you or the people around you?

Chase, for instance, knows to step away and let people pass on the sidewalk when he sees them approaching. He's very big and awkward, so rather than ask people to maneuver around him (or pass him closely if they're scared of big dogs) Chase will move to the side and sit or lay down, giving them the majority of the sidewalk. If there's grass, he'll very happily sit or lay there. Sometimes I need to prompt him with "share the sidewalk", but he mostly does it on his own now.

Additionally, I muzzle trained him so if a vet or anyone ever needs to, he's very comfortable with it. He'll voluntarily put his head in.

 

[MyDogBitz]

Crate training I think is at the top of the list. Traveling in vehicles comfortably. Rock solid recall. Loose leash walking. Down-stay. Accepting grooming and handling. OUT command. Stuff like this.

 

[Kaia Murphy]

That’s so sweet, “share the sidewalk” might be one of the most thoughtful commands I’ve heard. It’s awesome that he picked up on it so naturally too.

I really like the idea of muzzle training just as a life skill, I wouldn’t have thought of that, but it makes so much sense. What other things would you say fall into that “everyday manners” category for GSDs? I’m still figuring out what’s worth teaching early on vs what comes later

 

[EnraaGygas]

That’s so sweet, “share the sidewalk” might be one of the most thoughtful commands I’ve heard. It’s awesome that he picked up on it so naturally too.

I really like the idea of muzzle training just as a life skill, I wouldn’t have thought of that, but it makes so much sense. What other things would you say fall into that “everyday manners” category for GSDs? I’m still figuring out what’s worth teaching early on vs what comes later

When the time comes, you can get training kits on Amazon that come with size 1-8 muzzles for like...$30. PERFECT for training! Once Chase is full grown I'll get him his quality "just in case" muzzle, but for now these are perfect for practicing!

 

[RJX]

My pupper will bring me my boots in the morning! It's been a game changer

 

[Malakai The Great]

That’s such a good one, teaching that kind of spatial awareness makes such a difference, especially with a big dog.

For me, one of the best “life skills” I’ve taught mine is “go settle.” Whether it’s guests at the door, dinner time, or I’m working on something that needs focus, that cue sends her straight to her bed to chill until released. It keeps the energy in the house balanced and prevents her from trying to “help” with everything.

Another is “back up.” It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly handy for doorways, tight spaces, or if someone’s uncomfortable around dogs. You can redirect them without touching or crowding.

And I 100% agree on muzzle training, that’s a big one most people overlook until they need it. Making it part of the routine instead of a stressful event changes everything.

What kind of muzzle did you use for Chase? I’m always curious