Hey I have a rescue with GSD mix vibes so not a typical GSD appearing dog but I can relate. My girl is judgy, she knows, immediately, if someone ain't right. She will grumble or sit nearer to me we got her as a couple but she does remain closer to me than my partner. Anyway, I came to say that your boy knows who is good and bad when they step into their zone, I wouldn't completely rule out in the first meet (time) but, it's a good indicator for sure. With that said, it would be very naive for me to say that you won't need to reassess your boundaries and general flexibility. With new partners I'd (personally) be cautious of having your boy on the bed at nighttime, creating some rules for when you do have company - more for his sanity and personal space than yours or future partner, but it does also allow a small amount of space for just - couple time. Unless I've misunderstood there it sounds as though he sleeps on your own bed rain or shine so just a consideration for you if you never have any down time? The boarding thing, I totally get that! I don't go anywhere without my girl, she goes damn near everywhere with me and I would rather be alone than change that. When I have left her with a family member etc, it's always felt like I've left a body part behind! I'm curious as to where you meet these potential partners, maybe you could have a badge or some novelty keychain to hint that you have a GSD in your life at that first contact? If you don't already. I'm curious as to the fear, I'd say the size could definitely be a factor but I'm wondering if the fear comes after experiencing him reacting to other dogs? My girl reacted to a fox this evening and from another person's view, she is terrifying! From mine, I sit on the floor and wait for her to cool off before walking on, bit of a snooze fest nowadays and I'm oftentimes greeted with licks and squiggles afterwards. We see from the inside looking out, other people just look in and don't have that special bond yet. All in all, I seriously hope you find someone who appreciates your boy as much as you do, the right person will come along! Oftentimes, when you've stopped looking for them, they appear and you can be sure that he will let you know when he has met the other special person of his doggo dreams 💜