Canine Aggression

[kimluvspyrs]

My 2 year old male great pyreness is usually the most gentle and loving dog. However, if we give him a rawhide bone to chew on, we are unable to take it from him or move anything near him while he is enjoying it. He will growl at us and act as though he may snap at us. He did this to my 8 year old niece on one occasion. She was terrified and we were shocked, as it was the first time he had ever done that. He will even growl at my husband who is the household pack leader in the eyes of all of our pets. The reason we even give him these is due to the fact that we have a younger great pyrenees who bores easily and will shred and chew on our household items. So, at times, we give all 3 of our dogs one to enjoy. This evening I was merely trying to re-position the furniture cover under my male dog to avoid food stains on the ottoman (that he chooses to lie on). I attempted to move it under the bone, and he growled several times at me and even stood up. I must say...I am afraid of my own dog when he does this!!! I'd love some advice!!

[Daveyo]

You want advice!!!!!????

Easy as pie. DON'T BOTHER THE DOG while it enjoys its treat and is chewing it. All dogs will feel threatened that their goody will be taken away either from another dog sneaking up on it, or even from you. If you want the dog to move to another place call him and tell him to bring his goody with him. Usually they comply. But don't go there or near them while they chew on it. I got plenty of dogs myself, and they get voracious when any of them get near their bone turf.

It is natural for a dog to do that. Once you give it to them IT IS THEIRS AND NOBODY ELSE'S.

Sorry for the caps, but trying to make sure you get the main part well understood.

Daveyo