VERYYY Protective Black Shepherd.

[dogncatluvr]

LOL, Carrie, that may be another Brit/North America thing. The way I put it, means the dog will remember the correction to me.

[Ryan]

Mayissa,
Sounds like you are doing everything right on your own, but you need the help of a
excellent behavior trainer. (not just an obedient trainer)
For now, keep using the muzzle,
not only to protect others but to also
protect your dog.
You did not mention if he was neutered.
If he is not, I highly suggest you do it as soon as possible. Do not use this dog
for breeding.
I applaud you for what you have done
on your own.
Please keep us posted in the future.

[Mayissa]

Thanks Ryan for your encouragement. I feel that I have progressed alot with Zorro in one week. A trainer told me today Zorro has progressed and said I am concentrating more too. Basically I think she was saying I am in control, and very committed to changing my dog. Zorro JUST turned 6 months and I will desex him ASAP. I will not breed him either. For now I will persist with what I am doing and if he is still temperamental at 8 months I will seek a 1:1 trainer. I have already made enquiries. I am hoping desexing may calm him down. At puppy school today people freely patted him and he enjoyed it. In the street him may growl faintly but stops on my command now. But DARN, still needs more practice with his other canine friends.

Originally posted by Ryan:
Mayissa,
Sounds like you are doing everything right on your own, but you need the help of a
excellent behavior trainer. (not just an obedient trainer)
For now, keep using the muzzle,
not only to protect others but to also
protect your dog.
You did not mention if he was neutered.
If he is not, I highly suggest you do it as soon as possible. Do not use this dog
for breeding.
I applaud you for what you have done
on your own.
Please keep us posted in the future.

[OldTimer]

Trainer's POV: As some suggested -- overall basic training is essential. Problem solving, especially agression, is tough w/o a structure for the dog to connect to. Second, read "How to be your Dog's Best Friend" by the Monks. Pages 40 to 54. Forget the "rollover." The "under the chin" works best. Seems harsh, but you must be tough in this situation. Besides, once your dog understands you are the boss and have "relieved" it of the burden of feeling he has to protect you, he will be much more relaxed and happy. Don't worry -- when push really comes to shove he will protect you.

[strawberry_puff13]

Our German Shepherd Maggie is a 1yr. 5 month old female. She's as playful as can be, but would just about let anyone come up to her if they were friendly. Is there ANY way to get her to be more aggressive?

[karen israel]

YIKES! You gotta be kiddin!? I love my dog with all my heart and soul and even though he went to obedience school and I try to take him everywhere if you so much as look in our direction he's on a barking spree (no snarls)that can scare Godzilla. He is a wonderful home protector, I can do just about anything to him, but he has to be gated when plumbers or any strangers come over. I hate to admit I don't trust him. I have to anticipate our walks and keep my eyes open for diversions and totally take control of a 100 lb dog. Be every so grateful for your friendly dog. Believe me, as was mentioned before, you can bet you'd be protected if the situation occured. Count your blessings!!!

[Sudilar]

Strawberry_Puff

Be very happy that your GSD is not aggressive. Don't worry, if needs be, you will be well-protected!! It comes with the breed!


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***Save a life, ADOPT***

[This message has been edited by Sudilar (edited November 20, 2000).]