runnig at daughter

Question
Hi there.I have a 6 month old pure br.shepherd.Its both parents were champion dogs.The pup I have is also a very good well behaved and smart.He is very good with my 2 year old daughter,although he is still in the nipping and biting stage he never does that at my 2 year old.He is also very good with me and my husband.I also have a 9 year old daughter,and for some reason the dog always runs at her showing aggresion and barking at her.She is not afraid of him and always puts him in his spot yet he always runs at her barking and never to her.Although she never shows fear and always puts him in is spot can you please give me some advice as to why he plundges at her this way.much appreciated thank you.Yvonne

Answer
Hi Yvonne,
 The dog is showing fear aggression toward your daughter.  It is very difficult to give advice unless I could see the child and dog interact.  I would be very nervous of such behavior because the dog is very young right now and this type of aggression could lead to a bad bite to your daughter.  I would recommend that you worked closely with the dog and your daughter to facilitate bonding and trust.  Use food and have the dog play with your daughter quietly at first, also petting quietly and massaging.  You may want to get help from a trainer or behaviorist. the dog should always be in the leash during these times and with adult supervision.  Best regards, Dawn Hoppe & Tina K-9