[2manypets]

We have a 10 month old 3/4 GS and 1/4 Rottie puppy (nuetered male). He is generally a great dog. He knows my husband and I are the boss and listens to commands. He is fine with visitors and delivery people. We live in a rural neighborhood with 70 houses--this means no leash laws and all the neighborhood dogs are loose outside. He gets lots of socializing with other dogs and plays well with big dogs and minature dogs.

There is one behavior that I need to know how to change or handle. When people walk by the house he barks loudly, gets in front of them, and generally intimidates them. His tail is wagging and he will be friendly if they stop and greet him, but of course his behavior inhibits any friendly response. This occurs with neighbors with whom he has not had any interaction. The closest neighbors that he sees on a regular basis are fine and he greets them. These neighbors have no concerns with him and enjoy playing with him. What do I need to do to prevent or change this behavior? I would like to continue to be able to let him out the door to potty and play as we do now.

[Alpha]

You have to remember the breed.

Both breeds, GSD's and Rotts, are a guarding breed. It's in their blood to protect/guard their territory. Hence why he's fine with people that he knows are not a threat.

Personally, I like the fact that my rott/dobe protects the house.

Would you like to curb this behaviour totally?

or just how to manage/control it?

If you would still like your pup to protect, and good way to introduce the dog and yourself to the stranger walking by is on leash. Make your dog sit at your side, and offer a hand to shake with the stranger. Speak happily, comfortably, make some small talk.

What this does for your dog: You are the leader. You are calm and comfortable. Obviously this stranger is not a threat. Playtime! LOL

If he barks as you approach the stranger, be very firm and try not to repeat: "Ranger! Your fine! Enough!", some people don't agree with leash pops, but I did use them for what can be perceived as agressive behaviour towards people.

What you have to understand is how the dog things, especially a guarding breed: This person is trespassing on MY turf. I don't know who they are, I want to keep them away!

[2manypets]

Yep, figured it was his genetic instinct to protect his property. And I would actually like to keep that warning bark. Often, we are not outside when he steps into the street to 'harass' walkers. Do you think he can be taught to stay on the yard or drive-way rather than walking into the street and barking at people? or sitting and barking at people? Thanks!!!

[Alpha]

Any dog can be taught boundaries.

My girl is very territorial, but does not leave our property line.

I'm sorry, but don't know really how I taught her to do that. LOL , I assume it was because anytime she approached the boundaries, she got a verbal correction, and praise as soon as she returned.

I've heard of people using a long line for teaching dogs limitations. Apparently it only works if the dog is RUNNING or moving fast towards the boundary.

A lady I knew had a herding dog, that would run into the field and nip at horses hocks. She was advised to put a long line on the dog, tied to something. When the dog ran to fence to chase the horses, he got caught at teh end of the line and got a huge leash correction.

Now, he'll run full tilt toward the fence, stop and sit a foot away.

So your dog is loose outside when your not outside?

Not to lecture you, but that sounds very dangerous. He could get hit by a car, stolen or hurt someone.

Do you not have a fenced in yard?

For the safety of the dog and people, I'd work on his boundaries outside off leash, only when your around. A good way would be with two people, later on at night, or when there is no traffic on your street.

First practice on leash. Get the person to stand about three foot away from the curb on the street, and call your dog. When he approaches the street, I'd give him a quick pop on the leash, and immediate verbal praise, when he faces you or sits. Reward with a treat.

It'll take some time and patience though