Hey everyone, I’m really shaken up by something that happened with my stepdad’s German shepherd. He’s a 1-year-old, 90-pound boy. A month ago, he had a bad accident where he ran into a construction screw, and it got stuck in his skin. We couldn’t get it out ourselves, and when we tried using a screwdriver, he got aggressive because of the pain and even bit me lightly during the process. We eventually took him to the vet, and they managed to remove it.
Fast forward to now… I was trying to put his collar on before giving him a bath, and he ducked his head a few times, which he’s never done before. Suddenly, he bit my arm and wouldn’t let go. I had to run to the porch, and my stepdad calmed him down. I’ve got bruises and some open skin, and I just don’t understand what triggered this. He’s always been sweet with me before. Could it be related to the screw incident? Should we work with a professional trainer? I love this dog and want to rebuild our bond, but I’m scared now.
It sounds like the screw incident might’ve caused some trauma for him. Has he acted differently with your stepdad too?
K9Commander said
Not really. My stepdad put a leash on him recently, and he just ducked his head but didn’t attack. Maybe it’s just me?
K9Commander said
Could be he associates you with the pain from the screw thing. Dogs can form those negative connections.
Have you tried spending more time with him? Like playing fetch or giving him treats? That might help rebuild trust.
SarahMiller said
I haven’t yet… I’m honestly scared to get close to him again. Do you think fetch is a good place to start?
SarahMiller said
Yeah, fetch is great. It’s non-confrontational and helps him see you as fun, not a threat.
It could also be the leash. If he ducked his head, maybe he’s associating it with something bad that happened before.
CateBlanchet said
That makes sense. He ducked his head before biting me, but he also ducked when my stepdad put the leash on.
Freya
January 7, 2025, 6:05pm
10
CateBlanchet said
Maybe try having your stepdad leash him first and then you can take over for a walk to avoid triggering him?
Alaric
January 7, 2025, 6:05pm
11
Have you considered working with a professional trainer? It sounds like he’s got some insecurities that need addressing.
Alaric said
Yeah, I think that might be the best option. Do you think a trainer could also help me rebuild my bond with him?
Alaric said
Absolutely. A good trainer can work on both his behavior and your relationship with him.
One thing that could help is muzzle conditioning. It’s not a fix but could make future interactions safer while you work on trust.
BrianCopland said
That’s a good idea. Do you think he’d react badly to a muzzle though?
BrianCopland said
Start slow and pair it with treats. It’s all about making it a positive experience for him.