If a German Shepherd dislikes its owner, it may exhibit behaviors such as avoiding the owner's approach, disobeying commands, showing teeth, and even running away from home. Understanding these signs is crucial for addressing the underlying issues and building a better relationship with your dog.
1. Avoids Closeness:
Dogs are typically affectionate and enjoy being near their owners. However, if your German Shepherd consistently avoids your presence, moves away when you approach, or hides when you come near, and you've ruled out any physical discomfort, this is a strong indicator that your dog doesn't feel affectionate towards you. A dislike for you often manifests as a desire to keep physical distance.
2. Disobedience:
Most dogs are naturally eager to please and relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. However, a German Shepherd who dislikes its owner may show resistance to training, struggle to learn basic commands, or deliberately disobey commands they previously mastered. Ignoring your calls and commands is another obvious sign your dog is not seeing you as an authority figure it needs to respect.
3. Aggression or Revengeful Actions:
Dislike can also manifest as aggressive behaviors. Your dog may bark excessively, snap, or show their teeth without obvious reason. Some dogs are even capable of 'revenge' if they have been punished. They may act out in your absence by soiling the house, chewing furniture, and causing destruction as a result of their negative emotions.
4. Running Away:
Home should be a safe haven for your dog. If your German Shepherd frequently tries to escape or has already attempted to run away from home, it may indicate they dislike the living environment or the way you treat them. Frequent attempts to leave are not typical and should be taken seriously.
How to Train Your German Shepherd to Obey
To improve your relationship and build obedience in your dog, focus on the following:
Increase Communication: Spend time communicating with your German Shepherd, building trust and intimacy through shared activities and positive interactions. Frequent interaction is key.
Engage in Training: Engage your dog in basic training and challenge its natural instincts. Start with simple commands, and reward good behavior immediately. This will create an environment where the dog sees you as a provider of positive reinforcement.
Correct Negative Behavior: When your dog misbehaves, correct the behavior calmly and consistently, so your dog clearly understands what is not acceptable. Do not allow small misdeeds to escalate to bigger ones.
Be Patient: Remember each dog learns at their own pace. Have patience, don't force or rush training. Create a positive training environment, and always focus on encouragement to prevent psychological stress.
By understanding your German Shepherd’s behavior and utilizing the right training techniques, you can cultivate a happier and more harmonious relationship with your beloved pet. Consistent positive reinforcement, clear communication, and patience are all key factors in successful dog training and a strong bond.