I have a 8 month old GSD that I've worked very hard with her to make friends with people that come to our house. The only problem is that now it someone drives up that we don't know, she thinks that they are a friend too, and sometimes doesn't even bark. We live out in the country on 22 secluded acres, and she is not in a kennel for this reason. Any suggestions on how to get her to be more protective in these situations?
Mike J Schoonbrood Webboard User Reg: 04-30-2005
Posts: 2784
Loc: Toronto, ON
Offline
When you say that you tried very hard for her to make friends with people, do you mean that she used to not be social like this?
Unfortunately its hard coded in a dogs temprement whether they will be social or not. Usually adding a fence to the equation so your dog cannot go up to people to make friends with them they are more likely to bark, but thats about it.
Reg: 01-23-2006
Posts: 1608
Loc: Cali & Wash State
Offline
I agree with Mike, but also your dog is young and has yet to completely mature, so there are things you can do, but be very careful. Teach her to speak, then give her the command as people are driving up, when she reacts, praise her up. When my dogs are pups I don't really let others fool with them. When someone comes over, maybe a minute to greet, (if that) then in the kennel. It really depends on what you ultimately want in the dog. The way I raise my dog means he is not the life of the party and in fact it would be stupid & irresponsible of me to ever let him run around in the midst of a social gathering, let alone take my eyes off him. My point is a dog is only a dog, you can't expect him to be all things, & be careful what you wish for!
She was more protective when she was younger, but we have 2 small children and on the 8 weeks to 8 months video it talks about taking your pup out and letting people give your dog treats to help them with being more friendly around people, so I did this and now this is the response. I guess I tried to hard to get her to be friendly... Thanks
Mike J Schoonbrood Webboard User Reg: 04-30-2005
Posts: 2784
Loc: Toronto, ON
Offline
In most cases, an unfriendly pup isn't a good thing. It is an issue that needs to be worked on and you did right. Being unfriendly, in most cases, but not all, is a fear thing.
Reg: 01-23-2006
Posts: 1608
Loc: Cali & Wash State
Offline
It is in the majority of German Sheperds nature to be aloof & once they are no longer pups most would just as soon not be fawned over by those not in it's pack. It has nothing to do with fear. I'm saying if you want a dog who is on patrol at home(as I do), and you encourage certain behaviours, then you must be prepared for the consequnces, and act responsibly. I have never had a "fear biter" GSD, but if I wanted a "Party Animal" I would have a Golden Retriever.
Mike J Schoonbrood Webboard User Reg: 04-30-2005
Posts: 2784
Loc: Toronto, ON
Offline
Well he said she was "protective" when she was younger. A pup that is "protective" to me sounds like the pup is sharp. The aloofness comes with maturity. To me a GSD pup should be happy and confident and fine around people, then thru training and age when they are mature the aloofness and protectiveness will come. If the pup is happy and social with people as a pup then OK, but if the pup is being sharp or unsure of people then I want to teach the pup to deal with it.
When purchasing any product from Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. it is understood
that any and all products sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. are sold in Dunn
County Wisconsin, USA. Any and all legal action taken against Leerburg Enterprises,
Inc. concerning the purchase or use of these products must take place in Dunn
County, Wisconsin. If customers do not agree with this policy they should not
purchase Leerburg Ent. Inc. products.
Dog Training is never without risk of injury. Do not use any of the products
sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. without consulting a local professional.
The training methods shown in the Leerburg Ent. Inc. DVD’s are meant
to be used with a local instructor or trainer. Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. cannot
be held responsible for accidents or injuries to humans and/or animals.
Copyright 2010 Leerburg® Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. All photos and content on leerburg.com are part of a registered copyright owned by Leerburg Enterprise, Inc.
By accessing any information within Leerburg.com, you agree to abide by the
Leerburg.com Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Protection training???
Top
Previous Topic
Index
Next Topic.jpg)
