1 yr old Shepherd

Question
I have a 1 year old White German Shepherd. When I first got her, at 9 weeks, she loved children and was willing to allow them to touch her. I have recently started dating someone who has a 2 year old son. My dog is rather aggressive with the child. I have to keep her on a leash because she will chase the child down and nip at him. When she is on the leash and the child gets to close she will growl and bark. How do I stop this? I am wanting to move in with my boyfriend but feel as though we can not with my dog acting the way she is. How do I fix this issue?

Answer
Puppies tend to be more trusting and open than dogs approaching adulthood. Children tend to move differently than adults, and especially toddlers can be difficult for dogs, and hard to train for as they can't yet follow directions and are quite unpredictible. Honestly, for the safety of the child, I'd find a good, positive trainer or behaviorist to work with you, evaluate the dog and access if it's a risk. It does sound like it could be a serious problem. And I'm not comfortable giving internet advice on situations where a child may be at risk (other than to get personal help) Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com