Is your German Shepherd pulling on the leash like a sled dog? Barking at every little noise? Jumping on guests as if they were long-lost friends? You’re not alone!

While they are excellent companions and working dogs, they can develop certain behavioral problems that, if left unaddressed, can cause issues for both the dog and dog owner. These common behavioral issues can be frustrating, but the good news is—they’re completely fixable with the right approach. In this guide, we’ll break down the most frequent German Shepherd Dog (GSD) behavior issues and give you simple, effective solutions to turn your pup into a well-behaved companion.

Are German Shepherd Dangerous Dogs?

German Shepherds are not naturally dangerous, but they are strong, intelligent, and protective dogs. Their behavior depends on training, socialization, and how they are raised.

Why some people think they are dangerous?

  • They are often used as police and guard dogs, which makes them seem aggressive.
  • They are protective and may bark or act defensively if they feel their owner is in danger.
  • If not trained properly, they can develop bad habits like excessive barking, jumping, or nipping.

Are They Safe as Family Pets?

Yes! A well-trained German Shepherd is loyal, loving, and great with families. They are good with kids and can be gentle if raised in a positive environment. Proper training and early socialization help them become friendly and well-behaved.

7 Common German Shepherd Dog Behavior Problems

1. Separation Anxiety

German Shepherds are known for being highly attached to their owners, which can sometimes lead to separation anxiety when left alone. Symptoms of this include excessive barking, drooling, destructive chewing, and even accidents inside the house.

How to Fix It:

  • Gradual Desensitization: Slowly increase the amount of time your dog spends alone, starting with just a few minutes and working up to longer periods. This helps your dog become accustomed to being alone without becoming anxious.
  • Create a Safe Space: Ensure that your dog has a comfortable and secure area to relax in while you’re away. Include favorite toys, a bed, and calming elements like music or an anxiety wrap.
  • Exercise Before Leaving: A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Take your German Shepherd for a long walk or run before you leave to help expend their energy.

2. Excessive Barking

German Shepherds are known to be vocal dogs, and while some barking is natural, excessive barking can be a problem. It often results from boredom, anxiety, or a desire to get attention.

How to Fix It:

  • Positive Reinforcement: When your dog stops barking, reward them with treats or affection. This teaches them that quiet behavior leads to rewards.
  • Training Commands: Teach your German Shepherd the “quiet” command. When they bark excessively, give the command and reward them when they stop.
  • Mental Stimulation: Provide puzzle toys or engage in obedience training to tire your dog’s mind and reduce boredom, a common trigger for excessive barking.

3. Aggression Towards Other Dogs or People

Aggression can be a serious issue, especially with German Shepherds, as they are naturally protective. They may exhibit aggressive behavior if they feel their territory or family is being threatened.

How to Fix It:

  • Socialization: Start socializing your German Shepherd from a young age. Introduce them to different environments, people, and other dogs to reduce territorial instincts.
  • Obedience Training: Ensure your dog responds to basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” Having control over your dog in potentially aggressive situations can prevent unwanted confrontations.
  • Professional Training: If aggression becomes a serious problem, consider hiring a professional dog trainer who specializes in behavior modification.

Also Read: 15 Reasons Not to Get a German Shepherd Dog

4. Destructive Chewing

German Shepherds are known to chew on furniture, shoes, and other household items, especially when they are puppies. This destructive behavior can continue into adulthood if not properly addressed.

How to Fix It:

  • Provide Appropriate Chew Toys: Give your German Shepherd puppy a variety of chew toys to satisfy their natural chewing instincts. Rotate the toys regularly to keep them engaged.
  • Training and Redirection: If your dog begins chewing on something inappropriate, redirect their attention to a chew toy. Reward them for using the toy and avoid punishing them for chewing on the wrong items.
  • Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Sometimes chewing is a result of excess energy. Regular exercise and mental stimulation will help alleviate the need for destructive chewing.

5. Jumping on People

German Shepherds, especially when they’re young, tend to jump up on people out of excitement and affection. While it may seem harmless, this behavior can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if the dog is large or boisterous.

How to Fix It:

  • Ignore the Jumping: When your dog jumps up, turn your back and walk away. This removes the attention they crave and teaches them that jumping results in no interaction.
  • Teach “Sit” or “Down” Commands: Teach your dog to sit or lie down before receiving attention. Reward them for calm behavior and sitting patiently when greeting people.
  • Consistency: Be consistent in not rewarding jumping. Everyone in the household should follow the same rule to avoid confusion for your dog.

6. Pulling on the Leash

Many German Shepherds tend to pull on the leash during walks, which can make walks stressful and unpleasant. This behavior often stems from their excitement or strong drive to explore.

How to Fix It:

  • Training with a Harness: Use a no-pull harness that gently discourages pulling. Combine this with positive reinforcement when your dog walks calmly beside you.
  • Loose Leash Walking Training: Teach your dog to walk on a loose leash by stopping when they pull and only continuing when the leash is slack. This teaches them that pulling results in no progress.
  • Reward Good Behavior: Reward your dog with treats or praise when they walk calmly beside you. Positive reinforcement strengthens the desired behavior.

7. Resource Guarding

German Shepherds may show possessive behavior over food, toys, or other valuable resources. They might growl or snap if they feel their possessions are threatened.

How to Fix It:

  • Gradual Desensitization: Start by handling your dog’s food bowl or toys during calm moments and gradually increase the level of interaction. Reward calm behavior and avoid punishing the dog for guarding behavior.
  • Trading Up: If your dog is possessive over an item, offer them a higher-value reward (like a treat) in exchange for the object. This helps them associate giving up resources with something positive.
  • Training “Leave It” or “Give” Commands: Teaching these commands can help control resource guarding behavior and improve your dog’s overall obedience.

At what age do German Shepherd first get aggressive?

German Shepherds can start showing signs of aggression as early as 6 to 8 weeks old if they are not properly socialized. However, true territorial or protective aggression typically develops around 6 months to 2 years of age, as they mature and their guarding instincts strengthen.

Key stages of aggression development:
6-8 Weeks – Puppies learn bite inhibition and social behaviors from their mother and littermates.
3-6 Months – Teething and play-biting may escalate if not corrected early.
6-12 Months – Adolescence begins, and they may start testing boundaries and showing dominant behaviors.
12-24 Months – Protective instincts intensify, and without proper training, aggression towards strangers or other animals may develop.

How to train a German Shepherd to behave?

German Shepherds are smart and loyal, but they need proper training to behave well. Here’s are some effective tips to train your German Shepherd puppies.

1. Teach Basic Commands: Start with easy commands like sit, stay, come, and leave it. Use treats and praise when they follow instructions. Keep training short, about 10-15 minutes a day, so they don’t get bored. Regular practice helps them learn faster.

2. Socialize Your Dog: Let your dog meet different people, visit new places, and hear different sounds. Take them on walks, introduce them to friendly dogs, and let them experience car rides. Early socialization helps them become calm and confident.

3. Stop Leash Pulling: If your dog pulls on the leash, stop walking until they calm down. Use a no-pull harness for better control. Reward them when they walk beside you nicely. This teaches them that pulling won’t get them anywhere.

4. Prevent Jumping on People: German Shepherds often jump when they’re excited. If they jump on you, turn away and ignore them. Only give attention when they stay calm. Teach them to sit before greeting people, and ask visitors to do the same.

5. Control Excessive Barking: If your dog barks too much, find out why—are they bored, scared, or excited? Teach them the word “quiet” and reward them when they stop barking. Keep them busy with exercise and toys to reduce unnecessary barking.

6. Crate Training for House Manners: A crate can be a safe space for your dog and helps with house training. Make it cozy with a bed and toys. Give treats when they go inside, but never use the crate as punishment. Start with short periods and increase the time gradually.

8. Give Plenty of Exercise: German Shepherds need a lot of exercise—at least 1-2 hours a day. Take them for walks, play fetch, or give them puzzle toys to keep their minds busy. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog.

Conclusion

German Shepherds dog breed make great and devoted friends, but like any breed, they can develop behavioral disorders. The good news is that with constant training, socialization, and mental stimulation, most issues may be resolved. Understanding the underlying cause of your dog’s behavior and employing effective training methods will help your adult German Shepherd or puppy develop into a well-mannered and happy family member. If problems persist, seeing a professional trainer or behaviorist is an excellent method to get the greatest outcomes for both you and your dog.