As a German shepherd owner, asking the question, do German shepherds calm down with age is not out of line. I’m sure you might have noticed that your dog is very hyperactive. This is very common to German shepherds because they are energetic, playful and come with a lot of drive. So you might be wondering when your German Shepherd is going to be a little gentle or calmer. Or maybe, your German shepherd has become a bit temperate and you’re wondering if it is a cost for alarm or just something about them getting older.
In this article, we are going to explore reasons why a German shepherd might become a calmer dog. If you think that age is the culprit you would find out in this article however it is not every time that you have a more gentle dog as a result of aging.
Do German Shepherds Calm Down with Age?
Yes, German shepherds become calmer as they grow older. If you have a German shepherd by the time they clock 3 years, you can expect them to become a bit calmer. However, some dogs might be in the latter stages of their lives before they can be calm. Typically, German Shepherds become very calm when they are 7 years and older.
Is also important to note that age is not the only thing that makes German shepherds to become calm. A German shepherd might become calmer due to reasons not directly related to age. The next section I’m going to discuss other reasons why your German shepherd might be calm.
Other Reasons Why Your German Shepherd May Become Calmer
The following are some of the reasons why your German shepherd could be calm that are not directly related to its aging:
Neutering
The act of neutering can indeed have a calming effect on our German Shepherd friends. When a male German Shepherd is neutered, the production of testosterone is reduced, leading to a decrease in certain aggressive behaviors.
With their hormones in balance, they can often find themselves feeling more at ease and less inclined towards restlessness or dominance.
Proper Exercising And Training
Like any fine creature, a German Shepherd requires both physical and mental stimulation to maintain balance and tranquility.
Regular exercise, such as daily walks or engaging in activities like playing fetch, can help burn off excess energy and promote relaxation.
Additionally, structured training sessions that focus on teaching obedience and calm behavior, such as crate training and rewarding calmness, can instill discipline and a sense of self-control in our German Shepherd companions.
Less Anxiety
Anxiety is the bane of many a creature’s existence. German Shepherds, being highly intelligent and sensitive, can be prone to anxiety if not provided with a stable and secure environment.
By addressing potential anxiety triggers, such as loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, or separation anxiety, we can help our German Shepherds find solace and serenity.
This might involve creating a safe space for them, using calming techniques such as aromatherapy or music, or seeking professional guidance to manage their anxiety. A tranquil mind leads to a calm demeanor.
How to Make a German Shepherd Become Less Hyperactive
The following are ways we will recommend if you want to get a German Shepherd to be less hyper:
Exercise Fully
When your GSD isn’t getting all the exercise it needs, you can expect it to try and want to let go of the excess energy that’s left. If you want to drain all that hyperactivity, physical and mental stimulation is required.
Take them for long walks, play fetch, or even consider agility training. A well-exercised German Shepherd is often a calmer one.
Encourage Calm Behavior
Positive reinforcement training is also very important. Encourage calm behaviors by rewarding them with treats, praise, or toys when they exhibit relaxation. Teach them obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” to redirect their energy and promote a sense of calmness.
Get a Routine
Establish a consistent daily routine for your German Shepherd. This helps them feel secure and provides designated relaxation periods. Use specific commands like “bedtime” or “quiet” to signal calm times. Crate training can also create a safe and calming space for them.
Socialise Properly
Socialization plays a vital role in reducing anxiety and excitability. Begin socializing your German Shepherd from a young age, exposing them to different environments and experiences. This early socialization helps prevent hyperactivity in the future.
Neuter the Dog
Consider the option of neutering your German Shepherd, as hormones can contribute to their hyperactivity. Many owners have reported a calming effect after spaying or neutering their dogs. So, you can try neutering your GSD to make it a bit calmer.
Final Thoughts on Do German Shepherds Calm Down With Age
If you are wondering whether your German Shepherd will ever be calm, then you have your answer. It may get calm as it grows older which is typically when it gets to 7 years thereabout. It is important to note that aside from the various reasons I have provided on why your GSD may become calmer, an underlying health condition can make it calm.
You should verify that your dog hasn’t become calm suddenly because it is sick by checking with a vet.
Ole Dog House began in 2000 and was officially incorporated in 2004, strengthened by a technical partnership with Samantha Straub of Von Der Burg Loisenthal Kennels in South Africa. Over the past two and a half decades, our kennel has established itself as a leader in Nigeria’s canine industry, producing top-quality German Shepherd Dogs that strictly adhere to WUSV standards.
We are proud members of WUSV, the German Shepherd Dog Federation of South Africa, and the International Society for the Preservation and Advancement of the East German Shepherd Dog. Our commitment to excellence has taken us to GSD specialty shows and elite kennels across South Africa, Europe, and the Americas, expanding our knowledge and refining our breeding practices.
At Ole Dog House, our mission is to nurture a community of ethical breeders and passionate dog enthusiasts who are committed to preserving the integrity of the German Shepherd breed. Whether you are an experienced breeder, a first-time owner, or simply an admirer of this exceptional breed, we are here to provide valuable insights and expert guidance.
Thank you for visiting OleDogHouse.com—your trusted source for all things German Shepherd. Welcome to a world where excellence and passion for the breed unite!
- Can a German Shepherd Mate With a Caucasian? - July 2, 2025
- Can a Boerboel and German Shepherd Live Together? - July 2, 2025
- German Shepherd Dog Color Genetics - June 27, 2025