thoughts on dogs behavior - Page 1

18 month male great drives,good ball,very high bite drive,calm on the track.Very defencive over his crate an truck.OK around my kids but tails up an he swells up when they're out together.He listens to my kids (sit,down)even if he has his ball.Great with other dogs even with toys.Ok with strangers but when they first come up he swells up,tails up,an hairs up.He approaches with out fear.Great everywhere not afraid of anything inside or out.Hes been this way since he was young.To my understanding mother was sharp/father ok.Has been proven will bite for real since he was young.Just curious to see what you guys think. P.S. please don't go off the deep end with crazy stuff.

Hmm. This dog sounds pretty good, but he could accidently bite someone - including your kids - if you don't control him. Also, I wouldn't let this dog become the alpha, so make sure you're the boss of him. Rules, boundaries and limitations should keep this dog in check. Overall, I think this is a nice "one-person" dog, but will be good in a home that will take "alpha" status.

I agree with gsdlova. It's sounds as if you have a decent dog; just make sure he learns who is Alpha-1, then Alpha-2 through Alpha-10, and finally who is the dog himself. Your dog really expects you, the master, to show him his place. Bob-O

18 months is a classic age for this type of behavior, even if the dog is neutered. Keep an eye out for him starting to push the limits with the kids, you and strangers. He's now a punk young adult dog and often this age can be difficult for dog and owner. As long as you are aware of it, then things should be fine. And as long as you nip any unwanted behavior in the bud...be proactive with him and continue to show him what you and your family expect. Good luck :)

I have a dog 16 months showing very similar behavior, I agree it is his age and alpha tendencies, but also put down the behavior to introducing defence in protection work too soon (not my decision, helper pushed him a bit hard last time which coincided with the new defence/ guarding) Have decided not to go there again until he is over two and settled in his pack place. Mine now need careful management, but I have seen this before and am confident that it can be corrected by the above measures. Carol