[chase_mommy]

I have a Dane mix who has just turned a year old. Up until now he has just been a barker (then run away) when people would approach/enter our fenced in yard. Well this past weekend my cousin came over. He had met Franklin a few months back and didn't think twice about entering our yard. Obviously Frank didn't remember/recognize him because he barked at my cousin as he entered the yard and when his barking didn't make my cousin stop, he jumped up in front of him and barked in his face. He didn't actually touch my cousin but he defiantly wasn't friendly toward him and backed him out of the yard. My cousin felt if he hadn't retreated Frank would had bit him. As soon as DH went outside and had Frank sit my cousin entered the yard and frank was fine. He never showed any aggression toward my cousin after the fact and laid on his lap the rest of the night.

At first I was happy that Frank has started to defined his territory. I wanted a larger dog because 1) I love big dogs and 2) I am super paranoid about robbers or someone walking in my yard to harm me or my children. We have 1/2 acer and it can be challenging to keep tabs on both children at all times and with a big dog I am less concerned about someone walking in my yard and stealing my kids when I am checking on the other in the back. Anywho, I was telling a friend about this and she is super concerned that he is too aggressive and than if someone does come in my yard, even with signs posted, we can get sued.

Is this true? Should I be overly concerned? How do you all feel about this?

Frank has never bit anyone or even growled at anyone. This event that happened with my cousin is the first. I would never in a million years call Frank aggressive. The kids could eat out of his food bowel with him, if I would let him. So, what is everyones take on this?

TIA

 

[angie7]

I don't think the way he reacted was anything of concern. Someone strange entered his territory, he did what any dog would do. What was your cousin thinking entering a yard with a large barking dog anyways? Sounds like your cousin needs some lessons on dog behavior. Great Danes are usually a laid back breed (I should know I've had 4 and currently have one now) but they can be protective of their people and property. I had a GD that would back any man into a corner if they walked into my house. It didn't matter if he knew them or not, it was his way of saying this is my house and you respect it. Definately post signs, any dog owner should but any person should know not to enter a dog's territory, especially if the dog is showing signs that they are not welcomed. I would have a long talk with your cousin over this.

 

[chase_mommy]

Thanks angie7. There wasn't a need for a long talk. I think Frank made his point and it was well taken.

Does anyone know laws around posting 'beware of the dog' and 'dog bites' signs? Should I post, should I not? I am getting conflicted advice from family and friends. What would be the best route to go? Our yard and house is completely fenced in and 6 months ago the Kerby sales man had no issues with entering my yard unannounced. I just dont want anyone to get bit because of stupidity, on their part or mine.

 

[SevenVeils]

Your dog does not sound too aggressive to me.

Don't ask family or friends about the sign issue. This varies greatly from state to state and county to county. In some areas, posting signs is a protective measure for you. In others, it is the opposite, and a trespasser/burglar can claim that you obviously knew that your dog was aggressive or you wouldn't have posted signs. This has worked successfully to the trespassers' advantage in some areas.

Call your local animal control and speak with them about the sign issue. They will be able to advise you accurately, and in any case, having done so provides some measure of protection for you (assuming that you act upon their advice).

 

[chase_mommy]

Quote:

Originally Posted by SevenVeils Call your local animal control and speak with them about the sign issue. They will be able to advise you accurately, and in any case, having done so provides some measure of protection for you (assuming that you act upon their advice).

Great advice. Thank you!