In recent years, more and more people are choosing to get a large dog as a family pet. However, for some owners with large dogs, they may face some challenges, especially if they live in a community. I would like to share the story of a friend who had a German Shepherd but became a "villain" in the community because of it.
First of all, there are different definitions of "large dogs". Some people associate large dogs with ferocity, and this stereotype leads to misconceptions and prejudices about large dogs. For example, when she takes a German Shepherd in an elevator, parents with young children will worry that the dog will hurt their child, and then complain that she will endanger the safety of the child by taking the elevator with a large dog.
Second, the size and strength of large dogs can be a concern compared to other small dogs. While walking her dog in the community, she often meets neighbors with puppies. Even though her German Shepherd completely ignores the puppy, the puppy barks at her dog. This situation caused dissatisfaction among the upstairs neighbors, who complained that there were dogs barking in the community and even hoped that she would not come out to walk the dog at night. She explained that it wasn't her dog barking, but the neighbors assumed it was her big dog who scared the puppy and made the noise.
This is only part of the reason for the complaint, and she has become a "villain" in the community. However, the German Shepherd is actually very docile, curling up in a corner every time he enters the elevator and ignoring the barks of other dogs. She wants people to be able to truly understand the personality and behavior of large dogs, rather than judging them by stereotypes.
To solve this problem, I recommend the following:
First, community communication. Communicate with the property or owners' committee in the community to explain the German Shepherd's personality and training, as well as your management and control over your dog's behavior. Through education and communication, understanding and tolerance of large dogs can be increased.
Second, socialization training. Socialize the German Shepherd so that it is better adapted to getting along with other dogs and people, and reduce unnecessary dog barking and conflict. This can also reduce complaints about your dog from other owners.
Finally, make sure that the German Shepherd has received basic obedience training. It should be able to follow directives and regulations in public to ensure safety and order.
For large dog owners living in the community, it is a challenge to live in harmony with their neighbors. But through communication, training, and understanding, we can change people's stereotypes of large dogs and make everyone more tolerant and understanding of the existence of large dogs. I hope that everyone can solve this problem as soon as possible, so that large dogs and residents of the community can live in harmony.