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Why is my German Shepherd attacking friends and panting in the heat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 4 months old | 55 lbs

Hi i had a few questions, i got my 16 month old german shepard a few days ago, and firstly he was very calm in the the firdt week but lately hw has been barking and trying to attack my friends who he hasnt met before and secondly he never wants to come inside and always stays outside i lve in pakistan and its around 30°c and he pants almost all the time even though he has water access all the time and i have put a fan where hesits all the time and i started giving him icream but what can i do to

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sheroo is very handsome. Sadly the aggression towards strangers is a breed thing. German Shepherds are guard dogs and are very protective of their home and family. He should be confined (leashed, crated, on a chain) when people are over and they should be warned to not approach the dog if you are worried he will attack and bite. Overall you have to decide if this is the kind of dog you want. If it isn't you should hire a private trainer or behaviorist to work with you and Sheroo. He likely should be put on anti-anxiety medications to help with the training. This behavior will not improve and will likely worsen otherwise. If he chooses to be outside then you can let him. Provide shade, water, a sprinkler or baby pool for him to cool himself. If it worries you force him inside during the hottest parts of the day. Use a leash and bring him in. I wish you the best!

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