Prevent German Shepherd Growling
A large dog like a German Shepherd is terrifying enough even without growling behavior. When growling turns into a habit for your German Shepherd, you should prevent it.
Growling
Growling is one way that your dog converses with you, with other dogs, with other folks, and with strangers. Occasionally, growling is appropriate, like every time a stranger comes near, and occasionally it’s not. Growling is a dog’s way of warning someone to stay away. If somebody does not want to be bitten he’d better stand back.
A German Shepherd may feel threatened when folks are around since they may step on him. But he may be giving a forewarning that if they don’t stop he may do something about it.
When your dog is being taught to be a guard dog, growling could be tolerable in most cases. But it isn’t pleasing to growl at you or a family member.
If your puppy growls even in the presence of friendly folks, there is something wrong. Your dog may dislike the other dog for some reason, or he might have some reason for disliking the stranger. The most horrible thing that can occur is that the dog growls even at you.
When growling begins to become a problem, something must be done. Your dog may feel like he has the authority and that you’re not the leader anymore.
What to Watch Out For
If your pet is growling at you, do not force a confrontation or try bodily punishment with your dog. Confrontations will only worsen the circumstances. Your dog could bite or be very afraid.
If your pet is growling you must have your vet check him out to make sure there is nothing physically wrong with him. Your dog may be hurt and you don’t know about it. If the vet rules out any physical problem, then you ought to follow the advice below.
Prevent Growling Behavior
Training is still the best way. On your own, this problem can be too much. A instructor can help you figure out a schooling program for your dog. Training helps restore the best relationship between owner and dog and encourages your dog to look to you as the master. Your dog will learn that he enjoys pleasing you. A German Shepherd is innately receptive to schooling so this should never be a problem. Schooling should help you restore your connection with your dog.
Once you’ve re-established yourself as a leader, your pet will start obeying you again. He may also discover that he can growl only when prompted. You’ll stay on top of things.
Growling is a type of interaction and some growling is normal and even advantageous. However, it is not acceptable for your German Shepherd to growl at you or other members of your family. Enrolling with your dog in a good training class will reinstate your position as the leader in the relationship and should stop the growling.