How to Train German Shorthaired Pointers?

Indeed, German Shorthaired Pointers are generally excellent family dogs and affectionate with children; however, they can be unruly and destructive if they are not properly trained. It is highly recommended to train your GSP; not only can it strengthen your bond with him, but it can keep him safe as well. 

There’s no doubt that many dog lovers dream of having GSPs at home, but it’s essential to know how to train German shorthaired pointers. If you find yourself in the same position, today’s guide is just for you!

Train your GSP to follow basic commands.

You can improve the performance of your German Shorthaired Pointers by using the following basic commands. Every dog should know the following commands: sit, stay, come, and heel. By mastering these basic commands, your GSP will be able to learn more advanced commands in the future. These basic commands won’t take long for your GSP to learn since German Shorthaired Pointers are so intelligent.

Control your German Shorthaired Pointers barking

Barking is a common characteristic of GSPs. The barking of your German Shorthaired Pointers will have to be controlled if it has become a problem, and you will have to tell it when to bark and when not to bark. To train your GSP to bark on command, you will first say ‘speak’ to him. Your GSP will then be taught the quiet command. In this way, your German Shorthaired Pointers will be able to determine when to bark and when not to bark by using these two commands.

Exercise with your GSP each day

A great deal of exercise will be required by your GSP each day. Your GSP will seek out creative ways to release its pent-up energy without adequate exercise, which may result in some destruction (for example, digging holes in your backyard). You can exercise your GSP by swimming, running, and playing. Exercise your dog every morning and evening; long walks can also provide a good outlet for its energy; hiking is another exercise option.

Manage your GSP’s hunting instinct

 Generally, GSPs are bred to hunt, so if you don’t plan to hunt wildlife, you’ll need to manage that instinct. Otherwise, you’ll get dead rats or rabbits as trophies from your GSP.

Give your GSP toys to play with that will keep him busy to redirect his hunting instinct. 

There are also several games that you can play with your GSP, such as fetch and tug of war. You could even have it chase you (in a playful manner, of course).

There is no point in trying to get rid of your GSP’s instinct to hunt. Instead, your goal should be to channel that instinct into something more appropriate for your living environment rather than eliminate it.

Socialize your puppy

Dog socialization allows them to become comfortable with people, other animals, and new experiences, and it’s a crucial part of dog training. In order to ensure that your GSP puppy becomes a comfortable meeting and interacting with new dogs in the future, you will need to introduce him to them at an early age. Between the ages of 3 weeks and three months, they should be socialized.

Regular introductions to friendly individuals and frequent visits to busy parks are effective strategies for socializing your puppy. For your puppy to become well-adjusted as an adult, you should expose it to as many people (and pets) as possible during the socialization period. When dogs are not properly socialized, they may act around people and other animals.

Use positive reinforcement

It has been found that positive reinforcement encourages a dog to continue to do the right thing; examples of positive reinforcement include verbal praise, treats, and extra petting. The more positive reinforcement your GSP receives, the more likely they will follow your commands correctly and behave well. Moreover, positive reinforcement can help fill your training sessions with energy and enthusiasm.

Negative reinforcement, like yelling or physical punishment, can negatively affect GSPs; German Shorthaired Pointers are highly sensitive to human reactions, so you don’t want to use it.

Keep training sessions short

Keeping your training sessions short-no more than 15 minutes will prevent boredom in GSPs. Give your GSP positive reinforcement at the end of each training session.

Likewise, GSPs are easily distracted. Smelling something different in the air could be enough to divert your dog from the task. It is possible to help your dog remain focused with short training sessions.

Be consistent

For your GSP to master new tricks or commands, consistency and repetition are key. You may need to repeat commands multiple times to keep your GSP focused. Give your GSP plenty of treats to counteract the distraction. The smell of a tasty treat in your hand will help it refocus.

Are GSPs right for you?

They are not the right dog for every trainer, and they are not the right dog for every owner. Most trainers and GSP owners agree that GSPs shouldn’t be owned if they aren’t going hunting. In modern times, that’s probably not the case; GSPs can be ideal for joggers and runners.

Shorthairs may not be suitable for parents already consumed with raising young children; they are like another child – albeit crazier. It would be a good idea to avoid this breed if you are too busy to train, exercise and spend time with one; plenty of less driven dogs are out there.

Are German shorthaired pointers easy to train?

Yes, absolutely! It has a well-deserved reputation for being highly trainable and intelligent, making it an excellent family dog. Most GSPs are motivated by food, toys, play, and environmental elements (which can be used as rewards).

How long does it take to house train German Shorthaired Pointers?

Most puppies take 4-6 months to become fully house-trained, but some may take up to a year. Their size is important, of course. It should be noted that smaller breeds have smaller bladders and higher metabolisms, which means they need to go outside more frequently. Another thing to consider is your puppy’s previous living conditions.

How do I get my German Shorthaired Pointer to listen?

Keep in mind that EVERY DOG IS DIFFERENT. It is common for them to go through hard-headed, non-listening phases; stay consistent, and they will come around. 

When it comes to pups, you should try your best to let them be pups; for the most part, just let them do what they need to do. When a young dog is subjected to excessive pressure, he cannot show himself ready for more challenging tasks.

What age should I start Train German Shorthaired Pointers?

You should begin training your GSP as soon as possible; puppies are capable of learning as early as eight or nine weeks of age. Remember to keep training sessions short; If you have a puppy, begin with five minutes at a time; Work up to no more than 15 minutes once or twice a day.

Conclusion

I hope this article will help you to Train German Shorthaired Pointers. There is much more to dog training than just teaching commands. The way you live with your dog determines most of his behavior (good and bad). You’re sending your dog messages with what to do and what not to do. If you send the right messages, your dog will not have any problems. If you send the wrong messages, your dog will have many problems.