Hello All,
I need some advice about my dog. She is a rescue, 3-4yrs old. Belgian Terv. or GS mix, I've had her for 8 months. She has bonded to me intensly and exclusively, its just my husband and me in the house. What she does, I don't want to say she lunges, but she jumps at or rushes towards people if they reach towards me. For example, I was visiting with my family last evening, my dog was by my side, my sister reached towards my head, Samantha jumped up towards her arm. I yelled "NO", put her lead back on, when she did this again, I popped her with the lead and said "NO" She is what I would describe as "soft" She tends to act defensive towards strangers coming to the house or towards me. On our walks she has gotten much better, I move away, make her sit or lay down, she focuses on me, I reward her, and make her wait until I release her. My husband says when I am not home she acts initially loud etc. but then retreats under our desk, and basically waits for my return. She really wants nothing to do with anyone else. How should I handle this, without making it worse, or without creating new issues???
Thanks,

Regards,

Linda

Mike,
Thanks for you assessment and input. Actually, I don't think you read too much into what I described. Yes, I am the primary caretaker/trainer, my husband feeds her when my schedule won't permit, but she basically waits for me, she is just very suspicious of strangers. I'm trying to incorporate socialization/desensitize her, but I must be honest, that I'm wary at times, and will not allow children near her. The behaviors, you described your GSD exhibited, does sound like Samantha. Like I said, her background is an unknown to me. I've never experienced that type of protection??? from a dog, if thats what it is???? I suppose I could "set up" a situation and use that time to correct her. I was hoping to get some input from more experienced dog handlers, since she is my first rescue. It does seem that some of these poor dogs have baggage. I love her, and am committed to working with her.
Again, I really appreciate your suggestions!
Regards,
Linda

Well, she is a rescue, and you are correct, many rescued dogs come with baggage. Some more than others.

I'm no expert so I can't tell you exactly what's going on with your dog and what the behavior is called; protection?, possessiveness?, fear?, I don't know.

The good news is; you can start with a training approach. As you mentioned, have the dog on a leash with a training collar and correct her for inappropriate behavior. Reward her success. Over-simplified, yep. You seem to have the right idea, try to implement it and let us know how it goes.

I'm sure more suggestions will come.

Maybe you try some agility with her so she gets to see people in other settings. I think that could be a positive for her and another outlet to socialize, as well as give her brain something to do. I would get the husband to participate as well.

I would think that at this point putting this dog into agility would cause more problems. Too much excitement and go! go! go! I would immagine could put this dog on the defensive. Maybe once she is more calm and confident when interacting with strangers.