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 isn’t about being a “pet parent” or buying treats. It takes time and effort in the yard.
Based on my experience with Sarplaninacs, I can tell you 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 your dog.
Some of my favorite activities with the dogs include hiking in the mountains or trying to play fetch in the backyard, which is never easy with this breed.
I’ll never forget the time when my dog Tyson stole a piece of pie right off my plate, or the day we were out in the woods and one of the young dogs spotted a fallen tree and started barking at it like a threat.
Even just watching them run around and play together brings me joy after a long at work.
I often don’t have my phone to capture these moments, but those memories stay with me.
Training Through Play
Throw a ball, pull a thick rope, or hide in the yard. Games keep dogs active and waiting for your next move.
Playing together brings you closer than any expensive toy sitting in the corner.
Drop a piece of meat in the tall grass or behind a tree and watch the puppy search for his reward.
Spend time outside until your dog is tired and satisfied.
Breed Facts
Dalmatians ran alongside horse-drawn carriages to guard them while their owners were away. Border Collies herded sheep in the hills between Scotland and England.
Knowing these breed facts helps you understand your dog’s instincts and gives you good 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 make independent decisions, which is why obedience training can be a challenge.
Instead, I want my champions to stay fearless and protective.
They can be stubborn and lazy at times, but when it comes to defending their territory, they don’t back down.
For my Sarplaninacs, success isn’t measured by tricks like sit or fetch, but by their loyalty and natural instinct to protect family and home.
Understanding Dog Body Language
You can see the difference when a puppy drops its front paws to play or when an older male stands firm and lowers his 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 a need for space.
Catching these signals before any reaction starts shows 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 varied terrain work better.
Playing tug or fetch gets the dog 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 heel work 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 sitting nearby after a long day says it all.
When the puppy gets that attention at the right moment, after doing what was asked, he pays closer attention.
That is how they learn to follow your lead. It’s the simplest way to show that the work was done right and keep them 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 turned my back and walked the opposite way. I didn’t look back.
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 rules 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’s 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 routine every day builds respect. He learns to follow you, and that’s 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’s how you win your dog’s heart!
