Why Do German Shepherds Circle Their Owners? Understanding Canine Behavior

German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts, making them a popular breed among dog lovers. However, some German Shepherd owners may find themselves perplexed by a common behavior their dogs display: circling around them. While this behavior may seem harmless, it can be frustrating and even dangerous if not addressed.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why German Shepherds may circle their owners such as: Instinctual behavior, Attention-seeking, Anxiety or stress, etc. and provide insights into the breed’s natural instincts and behavior patterns. We will also discuss practical tips and techniques for training your German Shepherd to stop circling, and redirecting their energy towards more positive behaviors. 

7 Reasons Why Does My German Shepherd Always Circle Me?

Here we will explore the 7 most common reasons why German Shepherds may circle their owners, and provide an overview of the causes and solutions for each behavior.

Reasons Why Does My German Shepherd Always Circle Me: 

Reason	Cause	Solution
1. Seeking Attention	German Shepherds are social dogs and may circle their owners to seek attention or affection	Provide your dog with ample attention and love, and establish a consistent routine to avoid over-excitement
2. Marking Territory	Dogs have a natural instinct to mark their territory, and circling around objects or people is one way of doing so	Train your dog to understand boundaries and discourage this behavior through positive reinforcement training
3. Anxiety or Fear	German Shepherds may circle as a response to stress, anxiety, or fear, especially if they feel threatened or insecure	Address the underlying cause of the anxiety, whether through professional training, medication, or other interventions
4. Seeking Comfort	Circling may be a way for your dog to create a comfortable spot to lay down or rest	Provide your dog with a comfortable bed or designated spot to rest, and train them to use it consistently
5. Herding Instincts	As herding dogs, German Shepherds may circle people or objects as a way of fulfilling their natural instincts	Provide your dog with appropriate outlets for their energy, such as regular exercise or training activities
6. Health Issues	Circling can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue, such as ear infections or neurological disorders	Consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues and address them accordingly
7. Boredom or Restlessness	Dogs may circle around out of boredom or restlessness, especially if they are not receiving enough mental or physical stimulation	Provide your dog with regular exercise, playtime, and training activities to keep them engaged and stimulated

Understanding Canine Behavior: Why Do Dogs Circle?

Instinctual Behavior

Circling is an instinctual behavior that dogs have inherited from their wild ancestors. Wild canids, like wolves and foxes, would circle around their prey to assess the situation and plan their attack.

For domesticated dogs, circling can serve as a way to mark their territory, seek attention, or relieve anxiety.

Breed-Specific Behavior

Some dog breeds, including German Shepherds, have a history of being trained for herding or guarding livestock. These dogs may circle around their owners as a way to “herd” them or keep them within a certain area.

German Shepherds are also known for their protective instincts. Circling can be a way for them to assess their surroundings and ensure that their owner is safe from potential threats.

Health Issues

In some cases, circling behavior can be a sign of underlying health issues, such as neurological problems or ear infections. If you notice that your German Shepherd is circling excessively or seems disoriented, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues.

Training Techniques

If you’re looking to address your German Shepherd’s circling behavior, there are a few training techniques you can try. For example, you can redirect your dog’s energy towards more positive activities, like playing fetch or going for a walk.

You can also use positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding your dog with treats or praise when they engage in desirable behaviors. 

The Psychology of German Shepherds: Understanding Their Natural Instincts

German Shepherds are an intelligent and loyal breed that have been bred for specific purposes, such as herding and protection. These natural instincts can manifest in a number of behaviors, including circling around their owners. Here are some possible reasons why your German Shepherd may be exhibiting this behavior:

Marking territory: Circling can be a way for dogs to mark their territory and establish dominance. This is particularly common in male dogs that have not been neutered.

Seeking attention: Dogs may circle their owners as a way of seeking attention or interaction. This can be a sign that your dog is feeling bored or restless and needs some stimulation.

Herding instinct: As a herding breed, German Shepherds may circle around their owners as a way of “herding” them. This is a natural instinct that is deeply ingrained in the breed.

Playfulness: Dogs may also circle as a way of expressing playfulness or excitement. This is particularly common in puppies or young dogs. 

How to Train Your German Shepherd to Stop Circling

If you are experiencing circling behavior from your German Shepherd and would like to discourage it, there are several training techniques you can use:

Positive reinforcement: One effective training method is to use positive reinforcement to reward your dog for good behavior. This can include offering treats, praise, or affection when your dog behaves appropriately.

Redirecting their energy: If your German Shepherd is circling out of boredom or restlessness, redirecting their energy towards other activities can be helpful. This might include providing them with toys, puzzles, or other forms of stimulation.

Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to training your dog. Make sure you are clear and consistent in your commands and expectations, and avoid giving mixed signals.

Professional help: If your German Shepherd’s circling behavior is particularly concerning or persistent, it may be worth seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion 

In conclusion, if you are a German Shepherd owner who is experiencing circling behavior from your furry friend, there are many reasons why this might be happening. From their natural instincts and breed history to attention-seeking behaviors or even medical issues, it is important to identify the underlying cause of the circling behavior to address it effectively. So, the next time you ask yourself, “why does my German Shepherd circle me?” 

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can help your German Shepherd overcome their circling behavior and redirect their energy towards positive activities. Whether it involves training, providing mental stimulation, or addressing underlying health concerns, there are many ways to help your German Shepherd become a well-behaved and contented companion.