Adult German Shepherd living with kittens.

Question
About a year ago I rescued a White German Shepherd from being euthanized. His previous owners grew tired of him and no longer wanted him around. He is approximately 3 years old with no medical problems. He's a very good dog and I intend to keep him forever, but there is just one problem--- I want to adopt 2 kittens as a graduation present to myself. I work at a feline clinic and I simply must have a cat. I also have a spayed Dutch rabbit and he gets along with her pretty decently. There are some instances of chasing, but it's short and rare. I can also leave them together unsupervised. The rabbit's cage is always opened and the rabbit can choose when she want's to come out. I had the rabbit longer and I didn't want to punish her by changing this. Is there any need to a acquire the services of a training school for the dog or will he be fine because he gets along pretty well with the rabbit? If so, where can I go to help the dog to get along with other animals.  

Answer
You are to be Commended for rescuing your dog and saving his life!

The best way to predict how your dog will behave around other animals is to ensure that he he properly socialized and is predictable and obedient in behavior.  The best predictor of behavior is how he has responded in the recent past.

The below are some of the requirements of the K9 Good Citizen Temperament Test.  If you answer NO to any of the below, your dog needs more socialization or obedience training or both.

1.  Does your dog allow non-threatening people to approach and speak to you without reacting or jumping up on them;

2.  Does your dog sit politely and allow others to pet him while at your side.

3.  Does your dog allow others to groom him without suspicion or reaction.

4.  When out for a walk does your dog walk attentively at your side, not barking, pulling, sniffing, reacting to dogs, cats, bikes, skateboards, etc.  And does your dog sit at your side when you stop.

5.  Walking Through A Crowd.  The should be attentive to you and in control when lead through a crowd of people.

6.  Sit and Down On Command/Staying In Place.  An obedient dog will respond appropriately to these basic commands.

7.  Coming When Called. Determines your dog's reliability.

8.  Reactions to Other Dogs or Animals.  The dog must remain in control and focused on you when passing another dog or being placed near animals. (Shows Pack Drive, rather than Prey or fight drive).  The more your dog is socialized the better he will react in this situation.

9.  Reaction to Distractions.  The dog should remain calm, confident and attentive you when faced with distractions. These include a child running, a bicyclist, baby strollers, loud noises, big buses, other animals, etc. The more your dog is socialized the better he will react in this situation.

Other Warning Signs of a Dog that Requires additional Socialization and/or Obedience training

1.  The dog is aggressive and possessive over food, toys, chew bones, or even the water bowl
2.  When on walks, the dog wants to chase other dogs, squirrels, rats or rabbits or cats
3.  When excited, the dog becomes unruly, uncontrollable, and doesn't listen.
4.  When on walks, the dog stares intently at other animals, and perhaps even stalks them.

The goal is for your dog to deal with all situations in a calm, relaxed appropriate and controlled manner.  All of these concerns are dealt with in obedience classes.  Since I don't know what city or country you live in I cannot recommend a trainer.  Choose a trainer that uses positive assertive training methods and has a good track record in your area.  Some trainers offer a few levels of obedience, basic through advanced and are a good way to socialize your dog.

For tips on Introducing dogs and cats
http://www.fabcats.org/introducing.html

View my All Experts Profile for other tips.

The key to a long quality life with your pet is Owner Education.  I recommend doing some reading on care and training of your german shepherd dog.  There are many good books out there for your reference with all your training and behavior questions and concerns.  I carry these at my bookstore located on my website.

Thank You for Caring for Your Pets.

Gallant German Shepherds
http://www.gallantshepherds.com