GERMAN SHEPHERDS ARE SO INTELLIGENT and eager to learn that there's really no reason why your shepherd — whether a puppy from top bloodlines or a rescued adult — shouldn't be able to achieve a Companion Dog obedience title. The shepherd is one of those rare breeds that in three to four repetitions can learn a skill that would take another dog ten to fifteen repetitions. Even if you don't plan on titling your shepherd, teaching your dog a few basic skills will make her a controllable, well-mannered dog.