[jakesfostermom]

Prevet, your Winston sounds like my Jake....although it sounds like you've had Winston as a pup, which is a luxury I didn't have with Jake. I came here to this forum in October last year, because we found Jake as an adult stray, never owned a rottie, and wanted to understand his behavior, which was so VERY different from any other dog we had ever owned (we wondered if this was a "typical" rottie).....what we found, through careful evaluation and research, is we have a very weak nerved, fearful dog. The fact that he is a Rottweiler isn't necessarily a factor, other than it affords Jake the size, strength, predisposed public opinion, and set of teeth that can and will be harmful if I don't manage him properly. Given the opportunity, Jake will also sound off to our guests, because of his fear.....so please don't misunderstand weak nerves & fear as his natural tendencies to protect or warn you. He is looking out for himself - because HE'S the one afraid. Judi gave me sound advice back then, and she is giving you sound advice as well, as are the others who have posted. I just wanted you to know that if your Winston has weak nerves and fear aggression, it will take careful diligence and professional training with him on your part to work him through this, if it can be achieved. Trust me when I say - It is very hard having a dog who is a social misfit because of genetic makeup.....(which also makes me wonder why you are keeping him intact?) Good luck...