The Basics of German Shepherd Aggression

German shepherd aggression can be caused by many things. This aggression could be caused by a dominance related issue between you and the dog, or it might be a trigger that was never properly dealt with from puppyhood for example, an attack from some other dog. Whatever might be causing your german shepherd's aggression, you need to address it as soon as possible.

Dog aggression can start as young as 6 weeks of age, which is a very important time in puppy development where the dog should be socialized and given propergerman shepherd obedience training. This period of socialization lasts until the dog turns 14 weeks of age and can extend even further.

You should not ever take puppies away from their litters prior to 8 weeks old. Never use harsh discipline with the puppy between 8 and 10 weeks and make sure the dog is very gently treated in that time. Hitting, yelling or other harsh punishments at a young age can breed german shepherd aggression over time. A dog needs to have been properly socialized with people and other dogs by the time he reached 14 weeks to avoid any future aggression issues.

Actual aggression can be triggered by any number of factors. Heredity and genetic material, for example, are factors as certain breeds are just more aggressive but that isn't necessarily a given rule. Some dogs if they have not been spayed or neutered can also be naturally more aggressive.

When it comes right down to it though, the main factor in german shepherd aggression is the environment they are raised in. A dog that has poor living conditions, harsh masters, no socialization, or that has been frightened or attacked by another dog is far more likely to be aggressive as it ages.

Another factor in aggression is the need dogs have to establish pack orders. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies are often the result of a dog testing for dominance. You must absolutely create your role as a dominant leader when the dog is young and continue that position through the dog's lifespan so it cannot take over your household.

Your dog may show aggressive behavior after 14 months, when it is sexually mature. In this case you should deal with the problem right away. First, make sure you have established yourself as the pack leader. Don't reward your dog for aggressive behavior, even if it is scared (especially in this case).

Perhaps your dog is defensive-aggressive, in which case they might attack in fear. Dogs like this typically have not been socialized right. Absolutely keep them away from small children, and attend training and behavior sessions that will help the dog adjust to new environments.

German shepherd aggression is a huge problem that many owners have, but it can always be controlled even if the dog is older. If the time comes where your dog's aggression becomes violent, you may need to hire a professional to intervene so no one gets hurt, and your dog is not held responsible for what is just natural to it.