German Shepherds have a wide range of unique behaviors that might leave you scratching your head. From tilting their heads in that adorable way to pacing around the house, these behaviors often have deeper meanings than you think. Ever wonder why your Shepherd stares at you intensely or circles before lying down?
We’ll break down nine common behaviors that all German Shepherd owners should know. Understanding these can not only improve your communication with your dog but also strengthen your bond, so you’ll always be on the same wavelength.
1. The Famous Head Tilt
When you speak to your German Shepherd, you might notice them cocking their head to one side. This adorable behavior isn’t just for show – it actually serves a purpose! German Shepherds tilt their heads to better locate the source of sounds and to try to understand what you’re saying.
This behavior is particularly common when they hear unusual or interesting sounds. It may also be their way of showing that they’re paying attention to you. Some experts believe that the head tilt helps them to see your face better, letting them pick up on visual cues and expressions.
Additionally, German Shepherds have learned that this behavior often elicits positive reactions from their humans, which reinforces the habit. Who can resist giving attention to a dog doing something so cute?
2. Velcro Dog Syndrome
If your German Shepherd follows you everywhere, even to the bathroom, you’re experiencing what’s commonly known as “velcro dog” behavior. This breed is known for forming intense bonds with their family members and wanting to be involved in everything they do.
This behavior stems from their history as working dogs, where they needed to stay close to their handlers to receive commands and perform their duties. It’s also a sign of their protective nature – they want to keep an eye on their loved ones at all times.
While endearing, this constant shadowing can sometimes be problematic if it develops into separation anxiety. It’s important to teach your German Shepherd that it’s okay to be alone sometimes.
3. Excessive Chewing
German Shepherds are notorious chewers, especially as puppies and young adults. This behavior serves multiple purposes – it helps relieve stress and anxiety, aids in teething for puppies, and can be a way to expend excess energy.
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but German Shepherds may be more prone to it due to their high intelligence and need for mental stimulation. When they’re bored or under-exercised, they may turn to destructive chewing as a way to entertain themselves.
Providing appropriate chew toys and ensuring your German Shepherd gets enough physical exercise and mental stimulation can help redirect this behavior constructively. Training and positive reinforcement can also teach them what is and isn’t acceptable to chew.
4. Alert Barking
German Shepherds were bred as herding dogs, and their protective instincts make them naturally alert to potential threats. This often manifests as barking at unfamiliar sounds, people, or animals.
While this behavior can be useful in some situations, excessive barking can become problematic. German Shepherds may bark to alert you to something they perceive as unusual or threatening, even if it’s just the mail carrier or a neighbor walking by.
Understanding that this behavior comes from a place of protectiveness can help you work with your dog to manage it. Training can help them learn when barking is appropriate and when it’s not.
5. Herding Behavior
Don’t be surprised if your German Shepherd tries to herd family members, especially children or other pets. This instinctive behavior is deeply ingrained due to their herding heritage.
Herding behaviors can include gentle nudging, circling, or even nipping at heels. While it might seem amusing, it’s important to redirect this behavior appropriately, especially around children who might be frightened or hurt by it.
This behavior also showcases their intelligence and ability to work independently, traits that make them excellent working dogs in various fields beyond herding.
6. Digging
If your backyard sometimes looks like an archaeological dig site, you’re not alone. German Shepherds often enjoy digging, whether it’s to bury toys, create a cool spot to lie down, or simply for entertainment.
This behavior can be traced back to their ancestors who might have dug dens for shelter or to hide food. Modern German Shepherds might dig out of boredom, anxiety, or when they’re trying to escape the heat.
Providing alternative activities and ensuring your dog gets enough exercise can help minimize unwanted digging. Some owners even designate a specific “digging zone” where this behavior is allowed.
7. Leaning Against People
Many German Shepherd owners report their dogs leaning against them or sitting on their feet. This behavior is often seen as a sign of affection and bonding, but it can also be a subtle form of dominance or security-seeking behavior.
When your German Shepherd leans against you, they’re typically showing trust and seeking physical contact. This behavior reinforces the bond between dog and owner and can be a way for them to mark you with their scent.
However, if the leaning seems excessive or is accompanied by other anxious behaviors, it might indicate insecurity or anxiety that needs to be addressed.
8. Play Bowing
When your German Shepherd lowers their front end while keeping their rear end up, tail wagging, they’re inviting you or another dog to play. This universal dog language is particularly common in energetic breeds like German Shepherds.
Play bowing is a sign of a happy, well-socialized dog. It shows they’re in a playful mood and want to engage in some fun activity. This behavior often precedes running, chasing, or other playful actions.
Encouraging appropriate play helps strengthen your bond with your German Shepherd and provides necessary physical exercise and mental stimulation.
9. Circling Before Lying Down
If you’ve noticed your German Shepherd walking in circles before settling down for a nap, you’re witnessing an ancient instinctive behavior. This action, known as “nesting,” dates back to when wild dogs would pat down grass or leaves to create a comfortable sleeping spot.
While our pampered pups no longer need to create their own beds, this ingrained behavior persists. Some German Shepherds will also scratch at their bed or blanket before lying down, another remnant of this instinctive nesting behavior.
This harmless habit is just one of the many endearing behaviors that remind us of our dogs’ wild ancestry.
Take Home Message
Understanding your German Shepherd’s behaviors can significantly improve your relationship with them. These intelligent, loyal dogs communicate with us in various ways, from the adorable head tilt to the sometimes frustrating excessive chewing. By recognizing what these behaviors mean, you can better respond to your dog’s needs and concerns. Remember that many of these behaviors are deeply ingrained due to the breed’s history and genetics. With patience, training, and lots of love, you can work with these natural tendencies to ensure your German Shepherd is a well-adjusted, happy member of your family. After all, these quirks and behaviors are part of what makes German Shepherds such unique and beloved companions!
