6 yo GSD male, well obed trained, Sch trained but not titled. In excellent health, very athletic, good hips/elbs. Never used for breeding due to less than perfect nerves, tho not truly bad nerves. Strong defense drive, but very hi threshold. Had a full blood panel and xray series a few mos ago, all checked out 100% normal. Very social, outgoing guy, strong territorial drive.
Has gradually developed fears, maybe even phobias to a variety of things, ie thunder, strong winds, etc. The problem has gotten progressively worse. He never has shown sound sensitivity in the past, *except* he developed gunshyness on the Sch field after many, many mos of training. He shows no fear based, aggressive behavior, he's into avoidance. The problem has gotten so bad that he spends a lot of his day hiding in corners, anticipating the scary stuff starting up again. Has a vet appt Sat.
Was wondering if any of the pros here have seen this before? I've not seen this before, generally by age 6 the dogs are at their most confident. Thanks in advance!

There was a similar problem in a line of Giant Schnauzers. I believe it was genetic. Rather than fears the dogs became progressively more aggressive, to the point they had to be put down. The friend of mine that had 2 of them had real problems starting about when they turned 6. All were Schutzhaund trained (I don't know about titles). Started getting handler aggressive to the point that the breeder and my friend were put in the hospital from the dogs attacking. One wouldn't stop even after being hit with a shovel. The sire and at least 2 male pups I know of had the same problem, I think it happend with at least 1 other male from the line. That is what leads me to believe it was genetic.

Richard, I believe this is also genetic. That is really interesting, almost as if the dogs came into the world pre-programmed to detonate at age 6?
Fortunately, this particular dog has never shown the slightest amt of handler aggression, he has a very sweet temperament. (You'll not often find a male as wonderful w/other dogs as this one). He's definitely into avoidance.

Ed:

What do you think???

Vince,

Ed is busy playing with new puppies....Leave him alone.

Are you sure it's puppies he's playing with LOL <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" /> Just kidding, simmer down now

Richard:

I took a day off from the board. I joined a speed reading class to help me get through your posts. LOL. My pup was born last week. Ed is probably taking bites on a hard sleeve from him. He should be ready for his Schutzund I when I get him.

Vince,

Ask simple questions, get simple answers. Ask hard questions get long answers, get me really started and....walk away and come back tomorrow...I'll still be talking.

But Richard, your posts are really informative, don't edit for brevity, please!

Joy:

Richard knows I'm kidding. He has a better way with words than I do so I pick on him.