attacking random people

[maisypie]

Hi,
I recently adopted a 2 year old shepherd from the SPCA. He is gorgeous and polite, and we have not had any huge problems other than with the cats.
Lately, he has been showing aggression with certain people.
He got away on me one day and chased a runner on the street barking aggressively, when I called him he ignored me and when I went to him he turned and came and sat next to me. Another time my neighbour came over to visit and he jumped on her and starting biting her arm, growling and barking (not hard enough to cause damage) we calmed him down and then he had no problem with her.
Sometimes when I walk him he will bark and growl at certain people. Also some kids bother him as well. I have never let him near kids, but eventually I would like some.
When I adopted him he had passed all aggression tests and I can pretty much do anything to him and he never shows any aggression to me or my husband, and once he gets calmed down he is fine with those people..BUT I am scared to have people come over or approach him while we are walking, what do I do??

[lisgje]

Enroll in some basic obedience classes. Sounds like he needs to be re-socialized. Keep him on a short leash or restrained when people come over if you can't trust him.

[Bundash]

Also be aware of your energy...you say now your "scared" to have him around people at the house or in passing, so basically every time you see a person, you send your pup a message. So he may interpret it as anytime a person comes around, mommy gives off fear- he has a few options on how to react to that energy, fight or flight being the two major.

Keep in mind he is new to your home and leadership, stay strong and be clear and relaxed about your ways so he can rely on your for direction. With time, patience and consistency everything will fall into place.
Congrats on your new addition!

[CarrieJ]

Also, work on your leadership role. NILF (Nothing In Life is Free) Structure and Boundary things. Don't feel sorry for him because he's a rescue and what his life may HAVE been...he has a good life NOW.
The runner is an easy one. Things run, dogs chase...prey drive, same thing with cats...small running objects...prey drive.
I agree with the obedience classes if not a personal trainer/behaviorist.
Good Luck

[maisypie]

Thanks, I have enrolled him in basic obedience class and he starts next week.

[selzer]

Originally Posted by maisypie

Thanks, I have enrolled him in basic obedience class and he starts next week.

Good, it will improve the bond, and build confidence and trust. start there. post here. lots of people have been where you are.

Good luck with your new dog. Thank you for adopting him.

[GSDBESTK9]

Find a private trainer/behaviorist, they should be able to tell you why he is acting this way. We cannot tell you without seeing him. Where are you located?