Ah, the magnificent Schnauzer – that bearded, intelligent, and sometimes hilariously stubborn breed that has captured hearts worldwide! Whether you have a Miniature, Standard, or Giant Schnauzer, these sharp-minded pups are known for their quick learning abilities and eagerness to please. But let’s face it: they also have a knack for outsmarting their humans if given half a chance. That’s why we’re diving into some advanced commands that will keep your clever canine mentally stimulated while strengthening your bond.
The Silent Stay
Teaching your Schnauzer to stay without constant verbal reinforcement is a game-changer for real-world situations. This advanced version of the traditional “stay” command relies heavily on hand signals and helps maintain control in noisy environments.
Start by combining your verbal “stay” command with a flat palm signal, gradually phasing out the verbal cue. Practice in increasingly distracting environments, but keep initial sessions short to build confidence.
Remember that Schnauzers are naturally alert and protective, so this command is particularly useful when you need them to remain calm while assessing potential “threats” – which, in their minds, might include the neighbor’s new garden gnome.
The key to mastering the Silent Stay is consistency and patience. Your Schnauzer may test boundaries initially, but their inherent intelligence will help them grasp the concept quickly.
The Emergency Recall
Unlike a regular recall, the emergency recall is your nuclear option – a command that brings your Schnauzer racing back to you regardless of distractions. This could be lifesaving in dangerous situations.
Choose a unique word or sound that you’ll only use for emergencies. Many trainers recommend using a whistle or a distinctive word like “rockets” or “pronto” rather than the common “come.”
Practice this command by using high-value rewards that your Schnauzer only gets during emergency recall training. The reward should be something extraordinary – think small pieces of chicken or beef, not regular kibble.
Make training sessions exciting and unpredictable. Your Schnauzer should learn that this particular recall means something amazing is about to happen.
The Place Command
“Place” is more sophisticated than a simple “go to bed” command. It teaches your Schnauzer to go to a designated spot and stay there until released, even if you leave the room.
This command is particularly useful for Schnauzers’ tendency to “supervise” everything their humans do. It gives them a job while keeping them out of the way when needed.
Begin with a clearly defined space like a mat or bed. Gradually increase the duration and distance while adding distractions. Your Schnauzer should understand that “place” means staying put regardless of temptations.
Remember to praise calm behavior rather than just the initial action of going to the spot. This helps build duration and reliability.
The Quiet Command
Schnauzers are known for their vocal nature, and while it’s part of their charm, having an effective “quiet” command is essential. This advanced version teaches them to stop barking on cue and remain quiet until released.
Start by teaching your Schnauzer to “speak” on command, which might seem counterintuitive but creates a framework for better control. Once they understand “speak,” introduce the quiet command when they’re barking.
The key is timing – mark and reward the moments of silence, even if brief initially. Gradually extend the duration of quiet time required for rewards.
Use real-life situations to practice, like deliveries or passing dogs, but start from a distance where your Schnauzer can still focus on you.
Leave It with Distance
This advanced version of “leave it” teaches your Schnauzer to ignore tempting items even when they’re several feet away from you. It’s particularly useful given the breed’s strong prey drive and natural curiosity.
Begin with items at close range, then gradually increase distance. The goal is to have your Schnauzer ignore distractions even when they’re off-leash and you’re not right beside them.
Practice with increasingly tempting items, but ensure success by starting with less exciting objects. Remember that Schnauzers are terriers at heart, so this command requires consistent reinforcement.
The command should work even when the tempting item is moving, making it invaluable for encounters with urban wildlife or rolling tennis balls.
The Watch Command
While basic eye contact is a common training goal, the advanced watch command teaches your Schnauzer to maintain focused attention on you for extended periods, even amid significant distractions.
This command is particularly valuable for Schnauzers, who can become fixated on potential threats or interesting stimuli. Teaching them to break their focus and look to you for guidance is crucial.
Start in a quiet environment, gradually adding duration and distractions. The goal is to have your Schnauzer check in with you automatically in new or uncertain situations.
Use this command to help your Schnauzer remain calm during grooming sessions, which can be challenging for this breed.
The Go Around
This sophisticated command teaches your Schnauzer to circle around objects or people, which has practical applications in tight spaces or crowded environments. It’s also an excellent mental exercise.
Start with teaching your dog to circle around a cone or similar object, using a lure initially. Graduate to having them circle around you, then practice with different objects and in various locations.
This command can be particularly useful when navigating narrow city sidewalks or helping your Schnauzer learn to maneuver politely around other dogs and people.
The versatility of this command makes it an excellent addition to your Schnauzer’s skill set, as it can be used in numerous real-world situations.
Take Home Message
Training a Schnauzer isn’t just about teaching commands – it’s about engaging their intelligent, work-oriented nature in meaningful ways. These advanced commands provide mental stimulation while creating a more manageable and happier dog. Remember that Schnauzers thrive on consistency and positive reinforcement, so keep training sessions upbeat and rewarding. With patience and persistence, your bearded companion will master these commands, making your life together more harmonious and enjoyable. After all, a well-trained Schnauzer is a joy to live with, and these advanced commands help bring out the best in this remarkable breed.