NEW UPDATE: Tonight, for the first time, he picked up a toy and initiated play with me. It has been an exciting night in my house. Up until now he would look interested in my dogs while they played, but when he would join in they got vocal and he would get scared. When he gets scared he crates up. Tonight he grabbed a toy from my Lab and tugged with her. Then he stopped, and went and got another toy and played with it by himself before offering it to me. Once he realized I would engage he has been insatiable. He really enjoys squeaky soft stuffed animals and the oh so enjoyable "bad cuz" kong toy.  His personality is really coming out. He follows me everywhere and is enthralled with the very mundane things I do.

He is showing more interest in his environment and the cats also have a shadow. But he still has shown no aggression, just lots of sniffing and licking and staring  A brave cat would be best, cause he is a GSD, and running may cause chasing. But my cats hang around him with no fear. They are good judges of character.  Another great thing is his correctability. One strong "no" and he stops in his tracks.  I have been using mostly positive reinforcement trying to allow his personality to come out. I want him to try things and learn and expand. And tonight, he was a normal dog. Testing boundaries, pushing, learning. It has been amazing to see him blossom in such a short period of time.

Anyway. All in all, I can't believe someone would give this dog up. He is amazing. He is going to be the GSD that is the best dog someone ever had. The one you tell stories about for years.  I see no reason he can't be in a home with kids. In fact I think he would love it. He loves to be hugged and messed with. He met my moms neighbors young kids and was amazing with them.  I really see him as a true family dog. He is alert to his surroundings without being overly protective or suspicious.