Agressive Behaviour

[Crispy]

I've got a 6 year old German Shepherd, as he gets older he is becoming more agressive especially while he is on the lead. Is he too old to take to training classes?

[Sudilar]

German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent dogs. They are never too old to be taught to do something. Is this something unusual for him to do? Could he be ill or maybe something may be hurting him? He may be just protecting you when he is out on his walks. The obedience instructor might be able to suggest a behaviorist if he thinks you may need one to curb the aggression. Good luck. Let us know what happens.
Su

[carrie]

Hi there,
There could be many reasons why your GSD seems to be more agressive as he matures. Has he been hip scored? Is he neutered? Has he had a recent health check?
If you rule out a medical reason and he has been neutered (it's never too late to see positive results although some form of trainer or behaviour specialist will be needed to break a habit) and you would like some ideas please supply a few more details, When did this start? Is he aggressive to people, dogs or both? Is he aggressive at home in any way? Do you have worries when he is off the leash? That sort of thing and I will try to help

[Crispy]

Thanks for the advice given. I decided to give obedience classes a go tonight, and i thought we did very well, but as soon as we stepped outside the class and he saw another dog on the lead, his hackles went up and the growling and snarling started. he was fine inside with the other dogs there but once outside !!!!! The medical side is always a possibility, about 8 months ago he was diagnosed with hip displacia, which probably dosen't help matters, but he is on medication for that, which has helped immensely. I will just keep the classes going and see how he progresses mixing with other dogs in a confined area. I will keep you posted.

[carrie]

Hi,
I can't wait to hear how you get on. Good luck!