I have a lab mix dog and I see her maybe 3-4 hours a day?

Question

my wife spends alot more time with her, and feeds/waters/walks her during the day.

But when I am home that dog gravitates to me. Practically smothers me, she cant ever seem to get "close" enough to me, to the point where she wants to lay on me.

Why does she not show this much devotion to my wife. In fact, if I pet her, and wife comes over to me, she will growl the slightest growl, as if to say, get away from him.

How can we correct this behavior?

Answer 1

She misses you. When you are home she wants you all to herself. Be firm, set boundaries and stick to them. Obedience training works well for this. Petsmart has a good program. Consider planning "quality time" with the dog into your schedule.

Answer 2

See a trainer. I would correct a dog that growled at my husband. Do not allow her to growl at your wife. When she growls, tell her NO GROWL! If your wife approaches and the dog does not growl, then praise her.

Answer 3

There is no way to "correct" this behavior. Dogs, just like people, have their own people that they like/dislike. I dont see a problem here. O, by the way, I should also state that I do work at the local animal shelter. I have over two years experience in animal behavior. If you would like to know more, please e-mail me at [e-mail] (in the subject line, please put "Dog question")--Good Luck--Andy

Answer 4

i agree with the alpha male thing. dogs are drawn to the biggest person in the household-plus she misses you. try to ease this by sitting with your wife(close to eachother) then call ur dog over then the both of you pet her.

Answer 5

you are the alpha male to her and she sees your wife as a threat to the attention she gets from you ..you may have to take her for some kind of training or the equivalent of doggie counseling..good luck