My usually sweet dog, who is trained and knows his manners, has become a bit protective of me since I've been pregnant. Before, we would go on walks and he loved meeting new people, getting attention, pets, etc , but latley he has been GROWLING at people (strangers) we come across. he has never snapped or bitten anyone, and I really dont think he would, but he is an english mastiff and weighs 150 at one yr old, so his grows are very intimidating, not to mention rude! He has never acted like this before, it is really out of character for him...has anything similar happened to anyone else and if so, how did you handle it? he responds well to basic comands (sit, down, stay) and is still a perfect gentleman on the leash...but the growling almost has me not wanting to take him out on his walks!
2007-05-16 12:47:12 · 8 answers · asked by **0_o** 6 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Sounds like your dog is protecting his pack. And I can understand your concern, especially with such a big dog! It's up to you to correct him. Don't hit him! But when the behavior starts, correct him verbally and with assertiveness. Deepen your voice when you do it, too. You may also have to do a leash correction at the same time. This makes him understand that you are the leader, and he is not. It cements his place in the pack.
I'll be happy to help you through this. You're welcome to email me.
Cindi G.
Pet Trainer
2007-05-16 12:52:56 · answer #1 · answered by Cindi 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
First things first is to take him to a vet. Dogs can become like this when they are sick or in pain.
Next, once he's been cleared, find someone who can help to provide some support training to him. Mastiffs are known for being protective, but if you feel this is out of line and could get worse, then it's time to get him back into training. A positive reinforcement trainer would be best for this breed as they are very sensitive.
Good luck to you, your dog, and your baby! : )
2007-05-16 12:54:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Probably he is just being protective of you because of your pregnancy. But you ought to take the precaution since he is such a big dog and have him wear a muzzle when you go out in public. You'd hate for a dog that big to bite someone because he was trying to protect you. He will likely be that way when the baby comes too.
2007-05-16 12:58:26 · answer #3 · answered by blahblah 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Harley became into coaching Lollipop some know in simple terms like your grandmother might inform you no by way of status you interior the nook. the reality that she gave many warnings tells me that she is familiar with dogs language and has sturdy bite inhibition. that's a sturdy project. i does no longer difficulty lots approximately this as Harley maximum in all probability have been given her factor during to Lolli offering Lolli is clever adequate to get the hint. while you're worried, coaching Lolli a sturdy "leave it" command would help. you additionally can save the two dogs separate to alleviate various the strain on the older dogs. they'd desire to be stored separate every time you're no longer around to oversee their interplay.
2017-01-10 03:05:18 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually, when an animal's personality changes swiftly, it may have a sickness. Try taking your dog to the vet. If it's not that, he is probably protecting you and knows that your preg. But if he starts growling at you, I think it's time for the vet.
2007-05-16 12:57:02 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not to scare you, but since you are pregnant, please, please get this under control before baby is home and work with a professional dog trainer. This has the potential to be very dangerous for your baby.
My best friend's dog developed "doggie scizophrenia" and it began as growling. She was the sweetest dog and it was horrible having to put her down. I hope you get the help you need!
2007-05-16 12:57:00 · answer #6 · answered by wildatheart 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
He understands that it would be hard for you to defend yourself of you were attacked so he is doing everything he can to prevent that. As long as he is not biting or snapping, don't make him stop, but apologize to the people he growls at and tell them he is just trying to protect you.
2007-05-16 12:52:00 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
You need to find out how to control this... Probably with an animal behaviorist.
It probably has to do with his age more than with your pregnant status.
2007-05-16 12:51:33 · answer #8 · answered by ♥♥The Queen Has Spoken♥♥ 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋