What Not To Do For Your Aggressive German Shepherd
Some things can make your German Shepherds aggression worse. Its best to avoid doing the following which will slow your training.
Dont punish a dog for aggressiveness toward another dog in your home. Your dog will associate the punishment with the other dog and with you. This breaks down social relationships.
Dont allow your dogs to fight to work things out on their own. One of your dogs could seriously injure the other!
Dont set your dog up for failure. If you keep having issues with your German Shepherd attacking your other dog dont let them ever be together unsupervised.
Dont think its just a one-time event. Most likely, your German Shepherd and your other dog have issues with each other that youre not aware of. Thinking this is just a one-time thing could put your dogs in danger when they attack each other again.
How To Stop German Shepherd Aggression
Whenever your German Shepherd shows an undesirable or aggressive behavior, you must contain him and stop the behavior. But how do you actually stop or prevent this from happening in the first place?
If youre a novice owner, here are some things you can do to prevent and stop the dangerous behaviors from developing.
Why Are German Shepherds Vocal
Many Shepherd dog breeds are known to be vocal because of their working background, and German Shepherds are no exception. They were originally bred to guard and herd livestock, both of which can require vocalization. German Shepherds are also very intelligent dogs, and clever breeds often like to tell you how theyre feeling.
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Myth #5 Do German Shepherds Bite
This is kind of an odd myth, but one that is out there regardless.
For some reason, German Shepherds have gotten a bad rap as a breed, known for biting.
Perhaps this myth is again fed by the breedsuse in aggressive jobs or maybe their size and imposing stature cause people toassume that they will be biters.
Fact: This is an unfairly earned myth. German Shepherds are not generallyknown to be biters. Biting is a bad habit that is encouraged by poor trainingand poor socialization.
According to the American Kennel Club, German Shepherds account for less than 2 percent of reported dog bites.
In fact, Americas favorite breed, the Labrador Retriever is more likely to bite a person than a German Shepherd. For dogs, biting is a response to fear and a need to defend themselves.
If a German Shepherd bites, its likely there is a reason. Few dogs bite without being provoked.
However, a well socialized and trained dog is more likely to be calm in a greater variety of situations, which can also reduce the risk of biting.
Is German Shepherd Dog Naturally Aggressive
The German Shepherd breed is known for their aggressive temperament and tendencies toward dominance. In fact, The American Animal Hospital Association has identified German Shepherds as one of the dangerous dog breeds in the US. Studies demonstrate that this dog breed is an extremely aggressive dog, as proven by many documented attacks on people.
This trait is rooted in its DNA. German Shepherds are naturally protective over their family and territory. When they sense danger, their instinct tells them to attack the threat or escape from it as far as possible. This explains why some German Shepherds can be aggressive towards strangers or other dogs.
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Skeletal Health And Supplementation
Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Some breeds like the German shepherd, are predisposed to a variety of different skeletal disorders, including but not limited to: canine hip dysplasia, Cauda equina syndrome, and osteoarthritis. These conditions can be a result of poor breeding or induced by intense exercise and poor diet.
Canine hip dysplasia is an orthopedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation, lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. German shepherds are genetically predisposed to CHD and the University of Veterinary Medicine in Germany found its prevalence estimated to be approximately 35% of veterinary cases associated with the disorder.
Osteoarthritis is one of the main contributors of musculoskeletal pain and disabilities that commonly affect German shepherds. Mechanical stress, oxidative damage and inflammatory mediators combine to induce the gradual degeneration of the articular cartilage in the joint, resulting in reduced muscle mass, pain, and locomotion.
Vitamins such as A and D also have crucial roles in bone development and maintenance by regulating bone and calcium metabolism. Adequate levels should be incorporated into a German shepherd diet to promote a healthy musculoskeletal system.
Check With Your Vet For Any Health Issues
German Shepherds going through chronic pain can sometimes develop aggressive behaviors, which could be the case with your dog.
Your veterinarian can help you rule out any medical issues that may be causing your German Shepherd to behave aggressively. They will be able to test his blood for disease or check for physical signs of pain when they examine them.
Once you know, you can then begin working on a long-term solution, such as changing their diet or giving them medication that could help reduce their pain and inflammation.
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If It Doesnt Get Enough Exercise
Your GSD might be aggressive because it is not getting its daily dose of physical exercise. GSDs are active by nature and in the wild, they spend their time running around. They need time to exercise or else they become snappy. If you cannot take your GSD for a walk or run on a daily basis, try to take it out at least once in every two days.
GSDs are not used to stay all the time indoors. If you are living in a confined apartment and not letting your dog out, you are the one triggering its aggressive side. Take your dog to family picnics, parks, swimming, hiking, etc.overly-protective, so that it can stay active.
Are Breed Restrictions Legal
Many activists, as well as some high-level animal organizations , are completely against breed restrictions for several reasons.
Consider this: Has Fido ever attacked another animal or human or acted aggressively above and beyond what’s normal for dogs? If not, why should he be restricted just because other dogs of the same breed have shown aggression?
Basically, many animal organizations agree that aggressive behavior in a dog is much more about nurture than nature it all depends on how the animal grows up and how it responds to training. Plus, many believe that breed restrictions simply don’t work to lessen the chances of dog attacks or bites.
Unfortunately, breed restrictions have increased the number of homeless dogs sometimes, owners simply set the dog loose or bring it to an animal shelter rather than trying to find an apartment that accepts all breeds.
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Work With An Animal Behavior Therapist
For people that may have complex psychological issues, a therapist can help to unravel the ball of yarn, so to speak. The same applies with your dog.
You may be surprised at what a professional dog behavior expert may be able to accomplish with your dog and you together.
So if you feel that your dog is aggressive, take a step back and do not get frustrated. Go through the proper channels, speak with your veterinarian, and speak with a behaviorist.
Chances are there will be a hopeful future.
Are German Shepherds Easy To Train
Some are easy to train, while others are more moderate.
As we’ve seen, different lines have different temperaments. German Shepherds from working lines are typically more assertive and stronger-willed. A “tougher” German Shepherd will be more challenging to train unless you pay closer attention to building the right Leader-Follower relationship with the dog.
That doesn’t mean “softer” German Shepherds are automatically easy to train. Some dogs with soft temperaments are skittish or shy, making them just as challenging as a strong-tempered dog.
In general, though, a sound-tempered German Shepherd who is a good fit for family life should be easy to train. Just establish the right Leader-Follower relationship and the dog will be happy to work with you.
This is taught in my puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies .
Or see my advice on dog training
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How To Make A German Shepherd Bark At Strangers
Its a known fact that intruders are less likely to invade a home if there is a dog barking inside. So, if you want to teach your German Shepherd to bark to protect your home, make sure youve taught your dog the basic bark or speak command. Then, ask a friend to come over and make sure your dog sees them coming.
When they see the friend, say your command and reward them when they bark. Make sure you say it in a playful way so that your Shep doesnt think they are a threat, and introduce them afterward to discourage aggression. Keep doing this until your Shep understands the association between barking and people entering your property.
At What Age Does A German Shepherd Become Aggressive
Some German Shepherds might show signs of aggression at 3 months of age. However, their behaviors will increase when they reach adolescence. In contrast, other German Shepherds will only demonstrate aggression when they are at least 2 years old.
Whether they show aggressive behaviors or not, they need to be trained as puppies. It will help them understand those circumstances that require them to be hostile. Itâs also best to keep these dogs on a leash once they hit puberty because of hormonal fluctuations.
German Shepherds can become more aggressive if they arenât trained well and donât socialize with other humans and dogs.
GSDs need to be introduced to the world when they are almost 14 weeks old. It will help them learn to be friendly and pleasant.
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Do German Shepherds Get Aggressive With Age
Many dogs do not come into their full personality until they end puberty and develop aggression at this age. However, German Shepherds commonly receive training early and develop aggression concurrently. The ages between six months and a year can be almost as critical for a GSDs socialization as the early puppy weeks.
How To Get Your German Shepherd To Stop Being Aggressive
For the most part, your dog will not behave aggressively for no reason. Trying to pinpoint why your dog is acting out is key to correcting the behavior before it becomes a habit. There are a few common reasons your German Shepherd may act aggressive, but they can be dealt with fairly easily.
They Can Communicate In Their Own Way, So Listen
Because a dog cannot communicate with you verbally, its important to pay enough attention to your dog and look out for clues as to why they are getting aggressive. Remove the perceived threat, kindly reassure your dog that they are okay, and keep anyone or anything encouraging your dogs behavior away from them.
Help Them Release Energy
German Shepherds have a lot of energy that can fester if they arent able to expel it. Be sure to give your dog plenty of exercise every day. Take them for walks or let them run around in your backyard. They should also have toys around the house to entertain themselves with when they are indoors.
Teach Your Kids How To Interact With Them
Its important to remember that the majority of dogs do not act out unless they believe they are being threatened. If you have kids, teach them how to properly interact with your dog. If your kids mishandle them, are rough with them, or dont leave them alone when they are tired or busy, your German Shepherd might rightfully lash out.
Get Help If You Need It
Train Them To Ask For Something
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Is A German Shepherd Considered An Aggressive Breed
Yes, German Shepherds can be aggressive, but they arent any more aggressive than some other breeds of dogs. In reality, a GSD can be very relaxed and calm. As is the case with other aggressive dogs, the dog is not the driving factor for behavior. Training is key with German Shepherds, in managing aggressive behavior.
Is a German Shepherd the right dog for You? If you are single and looking for a buddy, a German Shepherd may be the right dog for you, but if you are looking for a family dog, this may not be the right breed for your family. When a German Shepherds protective nature goes into overdrive, they can become aggressive towards things you dont want them to be aggressive towards.
Are German Shepherds the breed for every family? The German shepherd is not the breed for every family. I happen to think that they are great dogs but please take a moment to consider the negative aspects of the breed as well as the positive. This is one of the primary reasons why there are so many dogs in animal shelters. Lets check out the pros and cons of german shepherd!
Are German Shepherds intelligent? German Shepherd Is Extremely Intelligent. German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, and with good reason: Theyre considered the third smartest breed of dog behind Border Collies and Poodles.
Your Dog Growls Or Nips At You When You Try To Touch Him
Your German Shepherd should never nip at your or growl when you try to touch him. This is a distinct sign of aggression and it may lead to more dangerous behavior in the future.
When your dog growls at you or nips when you try to touch him, hes telling you that youre a threat. He doesnt trust you and thats not good for either of you if your dog doesnt trust you, itll be more challenging to train him.
If your dog nips and growls when you try to touch him, take him to training lessons as soon as possible. You dont want this behavior to evolve into full-on biting, especially if your dog will be around children.
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Are German Shepherds Aggressive Towards Humans
German Shepherdsare not naturally inclined to be aggressive towards humans. Moreover, it is important to point out that a dog is not born aggressive regardless of the breed. So-called dangerous dogs become so for different reasons. But be aware that a dog will always be aggressive for one reasons and that in many cases, it is human failures or repeated recklessness that causes a dog to find aggression as the only escape route.
That said, the bite of a German Shepherd can indeed have more dramatic consequences than that of a Chihuahua. This is why the German Shepherd owner must be ready to invest lots of time in the education of his dog. A guard dog by nature, a poorly educated German Shepherd, will quickly become painful for his owner, his family, and those around him because he will tend to be suspicious, even aggressive. Fortunately, the German Shepherd learns quickly due to his high intelligence. However, its owner must devote the necessary time to his education and training in order to have a balanced, calm, and confident dog.
German Shepherds In The Top 5 Most Damaging Dog Bites By Breed
The American Animal Hospital Association conducted a study and concluded that German Shepherds were one of the most dangerous breeds based on bite severity and frequency of biting. This is not surprising given the fact that German Shepherds have one of the most powerful bites of all breeds. The study also concluded that large dogs with short, wide heads were the most likely to bite. This conclusion is supported by the fact that Pit bulls and Rottweilers are responsible for the highest number of fatal attacks. German Shepherds are more dangerous than the average breed, but they are not at the top of the list.
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How Long Do German Shepherds Live
German Shepherds are a healthy, resilient breed of dog. On average, this breed has a life expectancy of 9 to 13 years. Of course, health problems can arise at any point and affect their lifespan, but when a German Shepherd is well cared for in a loving home, their life expectancy can usually meet the highest expectations.
Are German Shepherds Naturally Aggressive :
It would be highly insensitive and ignorant if we flat out stated, GSDs are aggressive without considering its characteristics, personality traits, and the effort required to keep them well disciplined. The German shepherd is a large and interesting breed. They are a combination of power, confidence, and intelligence which makes them incredibly interesting and if not trained properly can turn out to be harmful to humans, as well.
Some of the most striking features of a GSD is that they are very protective towards their family and are always on high alert. Besides these, they are naturally loyal, fierce, and extremely brave. They possess an alpha trait that naturally makes them dominant, and coupled with the protective trait they pounce or bite on a stranger by sensing them as a potential threat to the family, one of the most important reasons contributing to the generalized idea of considering German Shepherd dogs as aggressive.
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