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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Original poster

GSD/guard breed advice.

8 replies

ShipShopShep · 08/05/2025 17:15

Currently looking after my relatives 1 year old GSD cross. Cross options are something bull breed/mastiff.

Relative has been a poor owner- elderly and unfit. Minimal training, knows sit and wait.

I am pushing for him to go into a rescue as I don't think he should be returned to relative, but whilst he is in limbo I want to at least start some sort of training. I can see signs of guarding which is breed trait.

Can anyone recommend German Shepherd you tube/books/ anything relating to guard breeds. Thanks

OP posts:
ACynicalDad · 08/05/2025 23:23

I would recommend the Woorz app, not specifically breed related but great at providing a curriculum for any dog.

faerietales · 09/05/2025 07:13

I wouldn’t recommend trying anything yourself with a breed mix like that which is already showing “issues”. You need professional help.

Yotoyoto · 09/05/2025 07:27

The last thing the dog needs is to start something with you if you are going to give them up. (That may well be the right decision, there is no judgement) but GSDs are hugely emotional dogs who like to connect with a specific person. I would make the decision as quick as possible to minimise messing the dog around.

LandSharksAnonymous · 09/05/2025 09:32

faerietales · 09/05/2025 07:13

I wouldn’t recommend trying anything yourself with a breed mix like that which is already showing “issues”. You need professional help.

End of thread!

CousinBob · 09/05/2025 23:29

Look at
www.facebook.com/groups/dogtrainingadviceandsupport/

Original poster
ShipShopShep · 10/05/2025 13:41

It's not the end of thread in reality though.

I have to do something, whilst he is with me, I can not leave him in a crate all day and I can not hand him over at the rescue I have been talking too as they will not take him without the owners consent.

Since I have had him I've got him used to wearing a muzzle, walking on lead, I want to do more. I don't know what will happen to him but it can not be worse than he is now.
I live alone and walk away from people so the risks are manageable

Thabks @CousinBob will look at that.

OP posts:
faerietales · 10/05/2025 13:49

If you feel you need to do something then you really should get a trainer or a behaviourist to help you in person. Working with a breed like that requires experience - it's not something you should attempt alone, especially when the dog isn't yours and you won't know all its' quirks, likes and dislikes.

A big crossbreed with guarding traits has the potential to be very dangerous if you get it wrong.

Setyoufree · 10/05/2025 13:51

I would work with a local trainer who has experience with large/guarding dogs if you can?

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