My wife and I adopted a GSD mix with behavioral problems a few years ago. When he was five months old, he was nice with people and other dogs but extremely docile, afraid of many things, and refused to go for walks.
He now likes to go for walks, although he is hostile to strangers and animals he does not know. He gets along well with a limited group of people, including my wife, our baby, my parents, their dog, my mother-in-law, and my brother-in-law. He also gets along well with our other dog and two cats. He is, nevertheless, antagonistic toward all others.
When we have guests around, we have to either kennel him or keep him in the basement. His friends and family are terrified of him because he never stops growling and barking. He is violent toward people and other dogs even after going on numerous walks and runs, and trainers refuse to deal with him.
I am at a loss for how to lessen his hostility. He is too dangerous for me to handle for years to come.
my fellow trainer,take steps to avoid situations where your dog can practice aggressive behavior. This may include using leashes, gates, or muzzles to ensure safety.
You can’t teach a dog not to be aggressive. You can just handle it. It never goes away, though. Hire a behaviorist to help you. For now, I would train him to wear a mask in case he ever escapes his crate or does something else while people are around. At least until you talk to a behaviorist, I wouldn’t let him associate with other people.
Your GSD mix’s aggression is scary, but there’s hope! Regular trainers might be hesitant, but a certified veterinary behaviorist can create a safe training plan. Focus on management (muzzle, leash, separate greetings) and find a specialist.