German Shepherds are favored for military service due to their superior obedience compared to Malinois. They possess a calmer temperament and are exceptionally loyal to their handlers. While Malinois are known for their impressive agility, including remarkable jumping ability, endurance, and capacity for climbing and scaling walls, their temperament is less docile than that of German Shepherds, and their obedience can be slightly less consistent. Consequently, when selecting military dogs, German Shepherds are typically the preferred choice.
Reasons for Choosing German Shepherds as Military Dogs
German Shepherds have consistently been the top choice for military dog roles in many countries, including China. This is primarily because of their high intelligence and unwavering loyalty to their handlers. They respond well to training, often achieving remarkable results with minimal effort. Their large stature and imposing appearance also contribute to their suitability for military service. Malinois, while also developed for police work after German Shepherds, are also known for high intelligence and loyalty. They are naturally confident and can quickly adapt to new environments. Despite the popularity and excellent characteristics of Malinois, they haven't surpassed German Shepherds in military use. German Shepherds are noted for their gentle nature, low aggression, and high level of obedience, following commands with exceptional precision. On the other hand, Malinois can exhibit a more intense temperament and may become too aggressive during apprehensions, potentially harming the suspect even after an arrest is secured, which is a major drawback. German Shepherds generally show better behavior in training, while Malinois might show sensitivity and disobedience if bored. This is why German Shepherds are typically the preferred choice when it comes to selecting working dogs for military purposes.
How to Train a German Shepherd
Generally, German Shepherds can begin training between 3 to 5 months of age. Training should start with simple, clear, and consistent commands, such as "sit", "stay", "lie down", and "roll over". When they perform these actions correctly, reward them with praise and treats. If they make mistakes, be patient and avoid scolding or punishing them, which can lead to negative behaviors. German Shepherds typically have strong focus. After basic initial training, they will easily enter into training mode and can progress towards more complex training exercises as they get older.