Concern about German Shephard (Biting)

Question
Hi, I have a male, full blooded German Shepard thats going to be a year old June 6, 2005.  He is not fixed. We (my b/f and I but I moved back to my moms-been there since april 16,2005, which i took the dog with me) were going to breed him but changed our mines so he is going to get fixed here in about a week. Just recently, on Saturday, my mom was getting treats out for him and her male dog.  My sister (that doesnt live with us) was just peting his head and he turned around and bit her in the face.  I am the owner of him.  I scolded him and put him in the back room and told him to stay and lay down.  He knew he did wrong.  Then a few days later (Monday), my neice was peting him on the head (he wasnt getting a treat), he turned around and bit her in the face. I scolded him again and dont know what to do now. Is this a serious problem and how should I handle this now. How should I punish him? He is a friendly dog and never has shown any type of an aggressive attitude towards me, my mom and brother or anyone else. Could you please give me some advice on what to do about this... Thank you so much!
Kristin

Answer
This is a VERY serious problem. You have a dog that bit 2 people in the FACE. What if he took a nose or a lip off?

You need to take him to the vet immediatly for neutering. He should not be bred because of that behavior now and speak to your vet about behavior modification while you are at it.

NEVER take biting (especially if its a friendly pat) lightly.

Make the neuter appt, get in touch with a trainer. You have a lot of work to do.