[anna]

Kaiser, a 3 y.o.(desexed at 6 mths) is very devoted to me and is with me most of the day.We've had him since 6 weeks. We have no children and I suspect this is one of the reasons he doesn't like small girls. He barks at them.. also barks at old people in the street or public place, men wearing baseball caps and people that come close to the car.( I leave him inside it and he waits for me to come back from the shop).
At home we have a fenced yard and be will bark at people, walking with their dogs down the street. The other barking is I think the happy one... when we head off gfor our long afternoon walk.. he just has to let the other dogs in the street know all about it.
I suspect that it's a case of poor socialisation and possibly protectiveness.. but of course most people will read this behaviour as aggression. Is there anything I can do to minimize this barking? Should I be concerned?
Thanks for your help.
Anna

[DAVE231]

We once had a German Shepherd that was very aggressive and barked all the time. We slowly introduced her to people and other dogs and she became so social that it was a pain in the neck. She still barked at a knock at the door or a stranger in the area, but once she felt comfortable with a person, (Because of our reactions) everything was fine. Young German Shepherds have a protective instinct and need to be taught to accept others and calm down down and enjoy life. Unless you want an attack dog as it gets older, try to get the dog to be friendly. It's not easy but if you don't do it when they are young, it will never happen. Remember one thing- the German Shepherd breed is the most loyal and responsive to training pet that exists. Good Luck!

[labman]

Early socialization is extremely important, the first 12 weeks along with genetics largely determine personality and temperament. At 3 years, you dog's personality is largely determined, and will be hard to change. More exposure to other people may help. Do you ever wear a baseball cap? Maybe if he sees you in one, he will fear men in them less. Recruit some little girls to help. Arm them with treats. Treats don't need to be fancy, even some of his regular kibble should do. Make a show of being glad to see the girls, and let them give him the treats. It may be better to start by dropping or tossing them to him. German shepherd are not as food motivated as many dog, but treats work with most dogs. Same thing with old people. Work out different things for each situation. The combination of showing you trust them, and them giving him treats may work. Your attitude toward the people is very important. He can read your emotions. Try to be happy and calm. Most mean, nasty dogs are owned by mean, nasty people.

[anna]

Thanks for the good advice.. will start working on that ASAP. Will come back when I have another problem. All the best,
Anna :)