Hi I have just joined this group.

I have a 14 month olddoberman called Blade he is a dog.

I wonder if anyone could help mewith asmall problem I have with him.

Fisrtly; He seems to display no guarding instincts for example; ifsomeone
were to ring the doorbell he would not bark or show any interest at all
occasionallyhe wouldlook up to see what was happening but thats it. Henever
barks.

If an aggressive dog were to growl at him or bark he does not respond he
simply pulls on the lead and tries to get to the dog. I am concerned that
if the dog were to become angry he wouldnot be able to respond and warn it
off.

I taketo dog long walks at night and sometimes there are some difficulties
such as groups of peoplewho look threatening but he does nottry to defend me
at all. Why is this?

I did a test with him on sunday evening where I asked a friend to hide in
the side ofthe road and walk toward me and act in a threatening way, as my
friend approached us the dog simply pulled on the lead and did not bark or
growel, even when my friend began to shout and come towards me the dog
crouched down and looked the other direction and whined and gave a few
barks. I feld concerned that if this were for real the dog would not help
me. I feel he does not know how to act upon his instincts to guard and
protect his owner.

When I bought him he was very dull and did not seem to react to stimuli as
other pups do. He wondered around a lot and seemed very unawae of his
surroundings. I have given him a lot of love and firm training but still he
is the same. I am worried that he is missing something but I can't place
what this would be. I really need advice on wheather this is normal for
dobermans or is he unwell or different.

After I bought him he suffered serious sickness and dirrhoea for weeks even
after numerious trips to the vet. I have also noticed wartson hismuzzle
which bleed if rubbed or when he is playing with me blood ends up on my
clothes or the carpet. I don't mind this as I lovemy dog but is this
normal?

Can anyone please give me some advice or help. I would be very greatful,
and thanks for taking the time to read this long message


Thankyou

Robbie and Blade the doberman.

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