I have noticed now that Bella, 6 months old, has barked and shyed away from my dad and from my father in law. I tried to figure out the problem becuase shes not like that with all men. I finally realized that both of them come into my home like a whirlwind. They are not mean or anything but just loud and can be boisterous. So this weekend the in-laws came to town and my father in law is all shook up because "he's never been rejected by a dog". I tried to explain that if he would be calm and give her time she would maybe approach him and that if she didnt I didnt want him to try to force her. It took he about an hour and a half to get used to my dad last month and then they were best buds. I know that part of the GSD nature is to be reserved and aloof. Do you think she is doing just that or maybe it could be more? She will get her hackles up, bark and stay clear of them. My neighbor is a big guy and can be loud but when he comes over she just sits by him and begs for belly rubs.
my dog the same thing at 6 months its a male dog though.I think your dog will come out of it.Just make sure the nobody rushes in on her.you have to get in there way then.The dog needs to feel that you are in control,if she does she wil trust your judgement.With your family it's easier then with a stranger but if you don't get up tight and relax the dog will sense you are weary and will do the same.Now with your neigbor I have the same thing,big guy a drinker and loud.My dog still leary of him but he says hi and tells him good boy etc.the dog doesn't growl and him nor bark anymore.He just looks.Our dogs first role is herding thats what there bred for.They bred this type of behavior into them.You can't have a GS herding a herd of sheep and a kid comes buy and he runs over to them.just don't get mad at him stay calm but the boss and the dog will respect that more.
You need to figure out a way to help your puppy to work thru times like these and fix it. It's normal that they may go thru fear stages but it's our job to be proactive and teach them it's ok.
Firstly its always helpful to know young shepherds are almost always skittish and skeptical of things growing up. I have a shepherd she will be 1 in March. One minute she's the god almighty and the very next min. She runs like a freight train from the same thing she braved up to.
As a owner let your puppy experience as much as you can. It helps your puppy understand and become comfortable with things.
Teach your puppy as much as you can.
Part of my babies job as a family member is to be a guardian. Right now she's skittish to things that run at her. So when we are playing outside. I'll hide treats in my pocket and run at her and when she at me. She wins.
Its all about the experiences you give your dog as a puppy. And how you help over come any anxiety at that time. If your puppy is sheltered. Expect a skittish mess.
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