How to Handle and Tame a German Shepherd: A Beginner's Guide
Learn the right way to pick up and build trust with your German Shepherd in 5 simple steps.
Picking Up Your German Shepherd
When picking up a German Shepherd, it's crucial to support their body correctly. Their long legs and deep chest make them top-heavy. Use both hands: one under their chest to support the weight, and the other under their hindquarters to stabilize them. This prevents strain on their back and legs.
Avoid lifting them by their front legs or pulling them upwards. This can cause injury or discomfort. Instead, keep your movements slow and controlled, especially if they're large, weighing between 50–90 lbs.
- Use both hands for support: one under the chest and the other under the hindquarters.
- Keep movements slow and controlled to prevent injury.
- Avoid lifting by the front legs or pulling upwards.
Building Trust with Your German Shepherd
Building trust with your German Shepherd is a gradual process. Start with short, positive interactions. Here's a trust-building sequence: approach from the side, not from behind, to avoid startling them. Let them sniff you first, and offer treats. Spend time petting them gently, starting at the head and moving to the body.
Repeat this sequence daily for at least 5 minutes. Consistency is key. Over time, your dog will become more comfortable with handling.
- Approach from the side, not from behind.
- Let them sniff you first and offer treats.
- Pet gently, starting at the head and moving to the body.
- Repeat daily for 5 minutes.
When Not to Handle Your German Shepherd
There are times when it's best not to handle your German Shepherd. Avoid handling them after feeding, as they may be restless or uncomfortable. Don't handle them during heavy shedding periods, as it can be stressful for them. Respect their need for rest when they're asleep, and never rush handling them. It's important to be patient and give them the space they need.
Keep in mind that German Shepherds can weigh up to 90 lbs, so handling them during shedding can be particularly challenging and uncomfortable for both of you.
- Avoid handling after feeding.
- Don't handle during heavy shedding periods.
- Respect their need for rest when they're asleep.
- Never rush handling them.
Stress Signals to Watch For
It's important to recognize stress signals in your German Shepherd. Look for signs like lip licking, yawning, or turning away. These behaviors can indicate discomfort or anxiety. If you notice these signs, give them space and reassess the situation. Remember, their body weight can range from 50–90 lbs, so handling them gently is essential.
If you're unsure about their comfort level, ask yourself: are they relaxed, or do they seem tense? Adjust your handling technique accordingly.
- Look for lip licking, yawning, or turning away as stress signals.
- Give them space if you notice these signs.
- Handle gently, considering their weight range of 50–90 lbs.
- Assess their comfort level and adjust your technique.
Related questions
How often should I handle my German Shepherd to build trust?
Repeat the trust-building sequence daily for at least 5 minutes.
What's the best way to pick up a German Shepherd?
Use both hands: one under the chest and the other under the hindquarters to support their weight.
When should I avoid handling my German Shepherd?
Avoid handling after feeding, during heavy shedding periods, while they're asleep, or when rushed.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your german shepherd is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.