German Shepherds are already known for their loyalty, but what if you could make your bond even stronger? There’s one simple trick that could deepen their affection and make you their absolute favorite person. The best part? It’s easier than you think!
Find out how this game-changing technique can transform your relationship and leave your GSD showering you with even more love. Whether you’ve had your pup for years or just brought them home, this tip works wonders.
The Magic of Eye Contact
German Shepherds are known for their intense, soulful gazes. Those beautiful brown eyes aren’t just for show – they’re actually one of their most powerful communication tools. In fact, research has shown that dogs and humans are the only species known to use eye contact to boost oxytocin levels in both parties.
When your German Shepherd looks into your eyes, their brain releases the same love hormone that bonds mothers with their babies. This creates a deep emotional connection that strengthens your relationship with every shared glance.
But here’s the catch – it’s not just about staring at your dog. The key is to create positive associations with eye contact through what trainers call the “watch me” game. This simple exercise is the foundation of building trust and deepening your bond.
The Watch Me Game
Start by holding a treat near your face, just between your eyes. When your German Shepherd looks at your face, immediately mark the behavior with a “yes” or clicker, and reward them with the treat. This creates a positive association with making eye contact.
As your dog gets better at the game, gradually increase the duration of eye contact before marking and rewarding. Remember to keep sessions short and fun – about 5 minutes at a time is perfect.
Soon, you’ll be able to phase out the treat lure and simply use a verbal cue like “watch me” or “eyes.” This becomes an invaluable tool for both training and bonding.
Why This Works Better Than Other Methods
Many people try to win their German Shepherd’s love through endless treats or constant play. While these activities are important, they don’t create the same deep emotional connection as trained, intentional eye contact.
German Shepherds are working dogs who crave mental stimulation and clear communication. The watch me game provides both, while also tapping into their natural instinct to bond through eye contact.
This method also helps establish you as a trusted leader without using outdated dominance techniques. It’s all about building a partnership based on mutual understanding and respect.
Making It Part of Your Daily Routine
Incorporate the watch me exercise into your daily activities. Practice during meal times, before walks, or when greeting your dog after being apart. These are natural moments when your German Shepherd is already engaged with you.
Keep sessions positive and never force eye contact. If your dog seems uncomfortable, take a step back and make the exercise easier. Remember, some dogs need more time to build confidence with direct eye contact.
Use the skill during training sessions for other commands. Having your dog’s attention through eye contact makes teaching new behaviors much easier and more effective.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t stare too intensely or for too long, as this can be intimidating for dogs. Keep your gaze soft and friendly, just as you would with a human friend. If your dog looks away, respect their choice and try again later.
Avoid practicing when your German Shepherd is overexcited or stressed. They need to be in a calm, receptive state to learn effectively. Watch their body language for signs of discomfort like lip licking or turning away.
Remember that this isn’t about controlling your dog – it’s about building a mutual language of love and trust. Never punish your dog for breaking eye contact or failing to respond to the cue.
Building on the Foundation
Once you’ve mastered basic eye contact, you can use it to strengthen other aspects of your relationship. Use it during playtime to make games more engaging and interactive. Practice during grooming sessions to help your dog stay calm and focused.
This skill becomes particularly valuable in distracting environments. A strong “watch me” response can help your German Shepherd stay focused on you during walks or at the dog park.
The confidence your dog gains from this exercise often leads to improved behavior in other areas. Many owners report fewer anxiety issues and better overall obedience.
Take Home Message
The secret to deepening your bond with your German Shepherd isn’t about fancy toys or expensive treats – it’s about mastering the art of connection through eye contact. This simple yet powerful technique taps into your dog’s natural communication style and creates a lasting emotional bond.
Start small, be patient, and make it fun. Remember that every German Shepherd is unique, so adjust your approach based on your dog’s personality and comfort level. With consistent practice, you’ll discover a whole new level of understanding and love between you and your furry companion.
Most importantly, cherish these moments of connection. In our busy world, taking time to simply be present with our dogs and share a loving gaze might just be the greatest gift we can give them – and ourselves.
