Dan, I have been a GSD owner for many years and have got to know the breed well.

In order to achieve a good balance with these dogs it is VITAL that you become pack leader. German Shepard's make WONDERFUL family pets if given the right direction. They look for good leadership, and without that they will immediately take control!

Your dog (who is beautiful by the way), has done this. She is guarding YOU, and doing a very good job by the sounds of it.

I would strongly recommend that you go back to basics. Show her that you are very capable of looking after yourself, and her. Take her to a training school, make her listen to your commands and make training fun. GSD's love working and hiding her toys with give her immense pleasure.

I worry about people using rattle bottles however, without expert instruction, since used incorrectly, they can cause further problems.

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