Personality

Question
I have 2 11 month old German Shepherds. Male and Female. The female has incidentally turned out to be mine and the male my fiance's. The female seems like she has a good personality (and seems to be the alpha# although still a puppy but the male seems spastic and nips although we don't believe he is trying to bite. He just doesn't know how to be affectionate but wants attention. I think he thinks he is kissing. He also seems to be scared sometimes #hard to explain-let me know if you need more detail#. I go outside and he wants to jump #80 pounds# and nip. I try to hold him on the ground or hold him still and tell him no in stern voice or tell him to calm down in a calm voice but neither seem to work. Just makes it worse. He won't stay still and just when I think he is still and maybe understanding #with his sad face) I let go and he's right back at it. Any ideas? Is it our fault? Is it his personality? Can we fix this? Thanks for your help.

Answer
How does he play with the female?  It sounds to me like he is trying to play with you just like her.  More walks on leash may help.  

The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts. Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog. Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones. You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat.