Growing up as the child of a breeder, I learned that a Sarplaninac’s respect is lost the moment you start bribing him.
Getting a dog to follow you is not about being a “pet parent” or buying treats. It takes time and effort in the yard.
Based on my years with Sarplaninac dogs, I can tell you that they don’t care about tricks.
They follow a leader who knows “how to move” and sets the rules.
Invest Time Not Money!
Walking in the park, playing a hard game of tug-of-war, or resting together after work builds a strong and lasting bond with the dog.
Some of my favorite activities with the pups include hiking through the mountains or playing fetch (not easy) in the backyard.
I’ll never forget the time when my dog Tyson stole a piece of pie right off my plate or the time when we were out in the woods and one of my dogs saw a tree for the first time and started barking at it like it was an enemy.
Even just watching them run around and play together brings me joy after a long and tiring day at work.
I often find myself without my phone to capture these moments on camera. But these memories stay with me and I carry them in my heart.
Training Through Play
Throw a ball, pull a thick rope, or hide in the yard. Games keep the dogs running and waiting for your next move.
Playing together brings you closer than any expensive toy sitting in a corner.
Drop a piece of meat in the tall grass or behind a tree. Watch the puppy search for his reward.
Spend hours outside until your pet is tired and satisfied.
Breed Facts
Dalmatians ran alongside horse-drawn carriages to guard them while owners were away. Border Collies herded sheep in the hills between Scotland and England …
Knowing these breed facts can not only give you a better understanding of your dog’s behavior and instincts but also make for some interesting conversation starters at the park.
As an owner (or breeder) of Sarplaninacs, I understand the “specific nature” of each dog. They are highly intelligent and often make independent decisions, which is why obedience training can be a challenge.
Instead, I want my champions to stay fearless and protective!
They are stubborn and can be lazy at times, but when it comes to defending their territory, they do not back down.
For my Sarplaninacs, success is not measured by their ability to perform tricks like sit or fetch, but by their unwavering loyalty and their fierce protection of their family and home.
Understanding Dog Body Language
You see the difference when the puppies drop front paws to play or when an older male stands firm and lowers the head.
Common signs are easy to spot.
A wagging tail doesn’t always mean the dog is happy and a growl can signal a warning, fear, or that the pet wants space.
Catching these moves before any reaction starts shows exactly what the dog will do next.
Time to Exercise with Your Pup!
Two 20-minute walks a day keep the dog active and burn energy. For dogs that need more, short jogs or hiking on different ground work better.
Playing tug or fetch is how you get the pet to watch you and wait for a command.
You can set up obstacles in the yard to make them jump or crawl.
Short training drills with recall or following you around while you move are enough to tire them out.
Real Attention
You don’t need to spend hours petting the dog on the couch.
A simple pat on the head or just sitting nearby after a long day tells everything.
When the puppy gets that attention at the right moment, after doing what was asked, he just watches you more.
That is how they learn to follow your lead. It is the simplest way to show that the work was done right and keep the dogs ready for the next task.
Hiking with Sarplaninac Dogs
My Sarplaninac dogs moved further ahead during a hike and stayed on that path, ignoring my call.
Instead of chasing them, I just turned my back and walked the opposite way. I didn’t look back.
Very quickly, I felt the dog push against my leg – he had caught up immediately.
Moving in the opposite direction works better than shouting when you want the dog to follow.
Who’s the Boss?
Dogs need a leader to “stay calm”. If you don’t set rules, they will take charge and try to lead you.
Stick to your way and don’t give in.
Play is fine, but you must know when to stop. Too much play with a dominant dog leads to him ignoring every command.
That is where trouble starts!
Control the energy, and he follows you.
Why a Routine?
Dogs need a clear schedule. When they know the time to eat, walk, or rest, they don’t waste energy.
Without a plan, the dog starts making his own decisions.
Following the same order every day builds respect. He learns to follow you, and that is how you stay in charge.
Conclusion
Spend more time together! Walking through the woods or just sitting nearby after a long day is what matters.
When you show that you care through “action and effort”, he stays by your side. Forget the expensive toys and focus on the time you spend in the yard.
That is how you win your dog’s heart!
