Why Dogs Growl (4 Tips to Deal With It)
- Anja Boecker
- Updated: 2023-09-06
There are times when we simply do not understand our pets: We just want to pet our pet and suddenly it growls at us. How to deal with and prevent this behavior is what this article will teach you.
Every dog owner has experienced it: the sudden growl of a four-legged friend that makes you sit up and take notice. Growling is a natural way for dogs to communicate.
But what exactly is your dog trying to tell you? And how do you deal with it? Let's dive deep into the world of canine communication and find out what's behind the growl!
Naturally, you feel anxious: Have I done something wrong? Does my dog not trust me anymore?
But no matter why your furry friend is growling at you, you both need to learn how to deal with these situations. There are certain things you should never do.
There are other methods you can use to quickly smooth things over. And if it happens more often, you can do some exercises together.
Why Does my Dog Growl?
Pain, insecurity, fear, or just playfulness - there are many reasons for growling. Always pay attention to the overall situation and your dog's body language.
Growling is a very normal way for dogs to communicate. Since they can't talk to us, they use signals like barking, whining, or even growling. This is how they show us what they want and what they don't want.
When they are overwhelmed by a situation or afraid, they show it by growling. This is actually a good thing: growling is a warning that something needs to change in the situation.
If the dog continues to be pressured, the situation may escalate and the dog will bite. Therefore, you must learn how to properly respond to your furry friend.
Many things can cause your dog to growl. Especially if he is new to the family, it can happen a lot.
After all, everything is new to him and he has not yet been able to build trust with you. He may have had bad experiences and react very tense in certain situations.
In general, dogs growl when they feel uncomfortable or distressed. Even the wrong move or look can be enough.
It can be especially uncomfortable if your pet is disturbed while eating or is afraid that something will be taken away.
Always remember that when your furry friend growls, he is trying to tell you something. In most cases, it means "Stop! I feel pressured" or "The situation needs to change.
So there is no point in trying to make him stop growling. Instead, you should learn how to deal with it and avoid such situations.
The growl may also be a sign of illness or pain. Some quadrupeds are reluctant to be approached when they are in pain or ill.
In this case, it is good to check his general condition and observe him closely.
If the tips in the following sections do not help, it is a good idea to see a veterinarian who offers behavioral therapy.
Things to Avoid
If your protégé growls at you, your relationship is naturally very tense at that moment. He is afraid and you probably don't know what you have done wrong.
In this situation, it is especially important not to do anything rash. One wrong move can quickly make the situation worse. This includes:
1. Hectic Movements
It is normal to get angry when you are growled at. But if you act rashly and make hectic movements, you will only make your furry friend more insecure.
If he gets scared, the situation can escalate quickly. In the worst case, he will bite because he is overwhelmed by the situation. So stay calm and think about what to do next.
2. Get Closer
Many dog owners have an intuitive approach. They want to pet their pet and show it that it has nothing to be afraid of. Unfortunately, the dog understands this quite differently.
If you walk up to him or give him your hand, he will feel more pressure. This makes him feel even more insecure. A stare, in particular, is easily misunderstood by dogs.
Take a step back and relax your body. Then you can both calm down.
3. Punishment
Under no circumstances should you scold or punish your hairy friend for growling at you.
It's just showing you that it doesn't like something. If you forbid it, it will forget the warning the next time and may snap.
Besides, yelling won't solve the problem he's having right now. Getting louder will only scare him more.
Instead, try to find out what is bothering your pet and how you can do better next time.
4. Ignore Growls
It is not a good idea to ignore your dog's growling. It can become a serious problem if it happens frequently and you do nothing about the cause.
Your dog must be able to handle the situation, not learn it on its own.
Especially the growls of small dogs are often not taken seriously because they do not seem so threatening. But just like other dogs, they are showing that they do not like something.
Ignoring the problem will not make it better. It is better to consider what might be the cause and fix the problem.
Learning to Read Dogs
Dogs do not only communicate by growling. They also show other signals such as licking their nose, yawning, or averting their eyes. These are worth knowing!
Soothing Signals
Calming signals are body language signals that dogs use to avoid or resolve stress, discomfort, or conflict.
They can also be used to signal peace, to calm themselves, or to calm other dogs (and people). It is useful to recognize these signals because they can provide information about the dog's well-being and feelings.
Here are some of the most common calming signals dogs use:
- Lip licking: Rapid licking of the nose or lips, especially when food is not nearby.
- Yawn: Prolonged, emphatic yawning can be a sign of discomfort.
- Avoid eye contact: The dog looks away to avoid conflict.
- Turn away or turn your head: A sign that the dog is trying to defuse a situation.
- Slow movement: The dog moves unusually slowly or cautiously.
- Wink: Some dogs wink when they are unsure or want to reassure you.
- Sniff: Sudden and intense sniffing, especially when no interesting odors have been detected previously.
- Scratching or cleaning: The dog may suddenly start scratching or grooming even though it does not feel itchy.
- Tail lowered or between the legs: A lowered tail can signal uncertainty.
- Lifting the paw: Sometimes dogs raise a paw when they feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
- Sitting down or lying down: Especially when there is no obvious reason for it.
Note that many of these signals can also occur in other contexts. Therefore, it is important to consider the dog's overall behavior and the situation at hand.
For example, if you call your dog and he sits down and yawns, he is probably showing uncertainty or conflict. He may not know how to respond or may not understand the command.
Recognizing and understanding these signals can help you better meet your dog's needs and avoid potential conflicts. It will also help strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
How Do You Know When a Dog Is Angry and Ready to Bite?
Fixed gaze, ruffled fur, stiff ears, bared teeth, and a raised tail are warning signs. Safety first!
It is important to recognize your dog's signals and body language to avoid dangerous situations. A dog that is angry or excited and may want to bite will often show a combination of body signs.
Note that not all aggressive dogs will show these signs, and not all dogs that show these signs will actually bite.
Here are some signs that a dog may be aggressive or may bite:
- Stiff body: A tense or stiff body may indicate that a dog is alarmed or upset.
- Fixed gaze: A direct, fixed stare can be a sign of threat or confrontation.
- Raised lips and visible teeth: A dog that raises its chaps and shows its teeth is definitely threatened.
- Growl or snap: These are clear warning signs that should never be ignored.
- Erect coat: Especially on the back and the base of the tail.
- Ears laid forward or backward: The position of the ears can tell a lot about the dog's state of mind.
- Tail stiff and erect: While many people believe that a wagging tail is always a sign of friendliness, a stiffly raised tail with only the tip moving can be a sign of excitement or aggression.
- To stand in front of yourself or an object: A dog that is trying to protect or defend something (such as a family member, food, or toy) may become aggressive.
- Quick wagging of the tail: Fast, deep wagging may indicate tension or excitement, not necessarily joy.
- Bark: A deep, hard bark coming from the chest may be a warning.
If you encounter a dog exhibiting one or more of these signs, it is important to remain calm. Quick movements or loud noises can make the situation worse.
Do not try to calm the dog by petting it or looking directly at it, as this may be perceived as a threat. Instead, slowly and calmly remove yourself from the situation.
It is important for dog owners to recognize signs of aggression early and work with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to address and correct the problems.
Understanding Growls & Responding Correctly
As you can see, there is a lot to think about. But it is at least as important to react correctly to defuse the situation.
In any case, you should stay calm and not rush. Slow movements are much more helpful.
Take a few deep breaths and think calmly about what to do next. In any case, be kind to your pet and don't scold him or her.
It's best to take a few steps back. Your pet is probably just feeling crowded and needs more space. If you turn your body away a little, he'll know you're not trying to attack him.
Don't show him you're dominant. This will only make him feel more insecure. A relaxed posture can work wonders here.
It may help your protégé if you give him familiar signals. Of course, this will only work if you have practiced it a bit beforehand. Simple commands like sit and down will distract him.
You are familiar to him and he will immediately feel more comfortable. Saying his name calmly can also put him at ease. But make sure it doesn't sound too strict.
If you're not sure how to respond, just walk away and resolve the conflict.
That way, you can both calm down and think about what you can do better next time.
If your dog is growling at you more often, you may want to consider training.
Sometimes these situations can be easily avoided. But if your dog tends to growl, a few exercises can help.
First, it is important to understand growling and how to respond to it in certain situations. Let's look at different situations and how to respond to them:
Growl While Playing
When your dog growls while playing, it can mean several things. Often it is simply an expression of excitement and playfulness. It's important to evaluate your dog's body language as a whole and not just look at the growl in isolation.
- Game prompt: Many dogs growl to express their enjoyment of play and to invite you or other dogs to play.
- Excitement: Sometimes the game can get very intense and the growl is just a sign of excitement.
- Overstress: If the game becomes too rough or the dog feels cornered, growling can also be a sign of discomfort or being overwhelmed.
- Defend toys: When playing with a toy, your dog may also growl to "defend" the toy. This can be a harmless game, but if it becomes too intense, it can become a defense of resources.
- Observe body language: Also pay attention to your dog's body language. Is he standing relaxed and wagging his tail? He is probably relaxed and enjoying the game. On the other hand, if he moves stiffly, bristles his fur, or stares intently at you or another animal, it may be a sign of stress or aggression.
- Interrupt the game: If you are not sure if the growl is playful or not, stop playing for a moment. You can ask your dog to sit down or be quiet for a moment. This will allow both of you to relax and start again.
- Encourage quiet play: Try to keep the game calm and controlled. Wild games of chase or tug-of-war can overexcite some dogs. Build training sessions into the game by giving your dog commands in between.
- Training: If your dog frequently growls or you notice signs of aggression, you should contact a professional dog trainer or dog school. They can help you understand and control your dog's behavior.
Puppy Growls
When a puppy growls, many dog owners are often concerned. However, it is important to understand that puppies, just like older dogs, growl to communicate. Here are some reasons why a puppy may growl, and some tips on how to deal with it:
- Insecurity and fear: Puppies are little explorers, but sometimes they feel overwhelmed or scared in certain situations.
- Game: Sometimes growling while playing is normal and a fun challenge.
- Pain: Your puppy may be in pain or uncomfortable, especially if he growls when you touch or pet him in a certain area.
- Defense of Resources: Puppies sometimes growl to defend their toys, food, or a particular resting place.
- Assess the situation: First, try to determine the cause of the growl. Is it play related? Is the puppy in pain? Is he defending something?
- Keep calm: Punishment or scolding is not the answer, as it will only increase the puppy's fear or insecurity. Instead, remain calm and patient.
- Positive Training: Use positive reinforcement to teach your puppy desirable behaviors. For example, if he growls when you approach his food, try showing him that you are not a threat to his resources by adding tasty extras to his food as you approach.
- Socialization: Good socialization during the first few months of life is very important. Make sure your puppy has many positive experiences with different people, places, and other animals.
- Consulting: If growling becomes a problem or you're not sure how to handle it, contact a dog trainer or behavior consultant. It's better to get help early than to allow unwanted behavior to become entrenched.
- Avoid coercion: Don't force your puppy into situations that make him uncomfortable. For example, if he growls when you try to pick him up, he may be afraid or feel unsafe. Respect his boundaries and work slowly and patiently to overcome his insecurities.
Dog Growls at Other Dogs
When your dog growls at other dogs, he is trying to communicate with them. Growling can have different meanings and often depends on the context and your dog's personality.
- Insecurity and fear: The dog feels threatened or insecure by the other dog and creates a barrier between itself and the potential threat by growling.
- Territory or resource defense: If another dog approaches a territory or resource (e.g., toy, food) that your dog considers "his," he may growl to defend his territory or resource.
- Social ranking: Dogs sometimes try to establish their social position in the group through body language, including growling.
- Reactive behavior: Some dogs have learned to be reactive to other dogs due to negative experiences in the past.
- Keep your distance: If you notice your dog starting to growl or showing signs of discomfort, create distance between your dog and the other dog. This will give your dog space and help prevent potential conflicts.
- Stay calm: If you are nervous or tense, your dog may sense these emotions and react tense as well. Try to stay calm and relaxed.
- Training: Consider using Look at That (LAT) or Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) with your dog. These techniques help dogs better cope with triggers that cause reactive behavior.
- Socialization: If your dog growls, especially if it is a young dog or puppy, gentle, controlled socialization may be helpful. Organize play sessions with well-socialized dogs who are patient and tolerant.
- Professional Help: If the growling is frequent or appears aggressive, a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist should be consulted. They can offer specific techniques and strategies to improve your dog's behavior.
- Avoid dog parks: If your dog regularly growls at other dogs, busy dog parks may not be the best place for him. Instead, look for quieter places where you can better control your dog's interactions.
Too theoretical for you? If you prefer a visual approach, our app offers you step-by-step video instructions to teach your dog how to "How to Ignore Other Dogs on Walks". Learn more about our app here.
Both Look at That (LAT) and Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT) are positive training methods designed to help reactive or fearful dogs respond better to triggers.
They allow dogs to handle stressful situations or stimuli in a calm and controlled manner.
*1st Look at That (LAT) Training:
Target: The primary goal of LAT training is to change the dog's behavior by focusing on positive marking and rewarding calm responses to a trigger.
How it works:
- If your dog looks at the trigger (such as another dog) but doesn't respond, say "Look" or use a clicker and reward your dog.
- Your dog will learn that looking at the trigger and remaining calm will lead to a reward.
- Over time, your dog will become less reactive and more relaxed when he sees the trigger.
*2. Behavior Modification Training (BAT):
Target: BAT focuses on teaching dogs functional skills and enabling them to interact naturally with their environment to feel comfortable.
How it works:
- Your dog is brought to a distance from the trigger where he is curious or cautious, but not overly reactive.
- Your dog is then observed to see what signals he gives (e.g., sniffing, relaxing, slowing down).
- When your dog exhibits calm behavior, he is rewarded by being removed from the trigger (retreat). This teaches your dog that he can calm himself and that calm behavior reduces the stress factor.
- This training often requires the assistance of a trainer, as it is important to read the dog's body language and determine the best time to withdraw.
Both techniques, LAT and BAT, are designed to change the dog's emotional response to a trigger.
Instead of feeling fear, frustration, or excitement, these training methods teach dogs to feel safe and calm even in the face of a potential stressor.
However, it must be emphasized that both methods require patience, consistency, and often the guidance of an experienced dog trainer.
Dog Growls at Visitor
When a dog growls at a visitor, it can cause concern. However, it is important to understand that dogs use growls to communicate and to let us know their feelings or concerns. Here are some possible reasons and tips on how to respond:
- Insecurity and fear: Your dog may feel insecure or anxious, especially if he is not used to many guests or has had bad experiences.
- Territorial instincts: Some dogs consider their home to be their territory and feel the need to defend it.
- Jealousy or need for attention: Some dogs growl because they are jealous or feel that the visit will disrupt their bond with the owner.
- Overstimulation: Too many sounds, smells, or movements can be overwhelming for some dogs.
- Preparation: Before guests arrive, take your dog for a walk or play with him to get rid of excess energy. A tired dog tends to be calmer.
- Introduction: Let your dog and the visitor get to know each other in a neutral room or outdoors. This may help minimize territorial behavior.
- Safe space: Give your dog a safe place to go, such as a quiet room or corner, where he can relax if he feels overwhelmed.
- Positive Association: Use treats or toys to make the visit a positive experience. For example, have the visitor give the dog a treat.
- Training: Consider whether professional training is right for your dog. A trainer can help you learn specific exercises and techniques to improve your dog's behavior.
- Set rules: Explain to your guests how to behave around your dog, such as not making sudden moves or crowding the dog.
- Keep control: If you know your dog has a tendency to growl at visitors, keep him on a leash or in another room until he calms down.
- Exclude medical reasons: In some cases, pain or health problems may be the cause of behavioral changes. A visit to the veterinarian can help determine if there is a medical cause.
Dog Growls at Children
When your dog growls at children, it can be unsettling for everyone involved. However, growling is an important way for your dog to communicate. It indicates that he feels uncomfortable, threatened, or unsafe. Here are some possible causes, solutions, and tips on how to respond:
- Unpredictable behavior of children: Children are often noisy and move quickly and unexpectedly. This can be confusing or threatening to dogs.
- Bad experiences: If the dog has had a negative encounter with a child in the past, this may be the cause of the current behavior.
- Protective instinct: Some dogs are very protective of their owners and may see children as a potential threat.
- Uncharted territory: Children smell, sound and act differently than adults. A dog that does not regularly interact with children may find them strange and unsettling.
- Observe all interactions: Never let your dog play with children unsupervised, even if your dog is considered friendly.
- Education of children: Teach children how to behave around dogs: calmly, without sudden movements and without crowding the dog. They should learn not to stare at the dog, not to stroke the dog's head, and not to frighten the dog.
- Create positive associations: Associate the presence of children with positive things. Give your dog treats or toys when children are around so he learns that children mean something positive.
- Retreat: Make sure your dog has a safe place to go when things get too much for him.
- Desensitization: Under the guidance of an experienced dog trainer, you can slowly acclimate your dog to children in a controlled environment. This should be done gently and without pressure.
- Exclusion of medical causes: Sometimes pain or other health problems can affect a dog's behavior. A visit to the veterinarian can help rule out medical causes.
- Professional Help: If the problem persists or you're not sure what to do, you may want to consider hiring a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
Dog Growls When Petted
Maybe there's a sore spot or your dog just wants to be left alone. Respect his cues and give him the space he needs. If your dog growls when you pet him, he's trying to tell you something. Here are some reasons why and what to do about it:
- Pain or discomfort: Your dog may be in pain in a certain area and may growl when you touch him.
- Negative associations: If your dog has had a bad experience with touch in the past, or has been held too tightly, he may find touch threatening.
- Insecurity or fear: Some dogs are generally insecure or fearful, especially if they have not been well socialized or have had bad experiences.
- Surprise: If you suddenly touch your dog while he is sleeping or relaxing, he may growl in surprise.
- Go to the vet: If you think pain may be the cause, take your dog to a veterinarian.
- Slow approach: When you want to pet your dog, approach him slowly and speak softly. This will help him prepare for the touch.
- Create positive associations: Start with short, gentle touches in places your dog likes, then reward him with a treat. Gradually increase the amount of petting while continuing to give positive reinforcement.
- Respect his boundaries: If your dog indicates that he does not want to be petted, respect that. Do not try to force or persuade him.
- Pay attention to his body language: Before you touch your dog, watch his body language. Relaxed ears, a wagging tail, and a relaxed body are good signs. On the other hand, if he shows signs of being reassured, such as licking his lips, yawning, or avoiding eye contact, he may not be in the mood for petting.
- Training: A professional dog trainer or behaviorist can help you determine the cause of the growling and recommend specific exercises and techniques to improve your dog's behavior.
Finally, it is important to remember that not every growl is a sign of aggression. It is a way for the dog to communicate. He is telling you his feelings or concerns. It's up to you to figure out what's triggering those feelings and how to help him feel safer and more comfortable.
Dog Training: How to Stop Your Dog From Growling So Much
Watch your dog and try to figure out why he is growling.
Always remember that you should not break your dog's habit of growling.
It is a means of communication and an important warning signal. It can have much worse consequences if he stops growling.
However, there are situations where your dog should not growl. For example, if he growls at small children or even small things bother him, you should do something about it.
This requires mutual training: you can avoid some unpleasant situations for your pet, and in return, he will simply have to endure certain situations.
If your four-legged friend growls at other dogs, do not leave him unsupervised with other dogs.
If strangers frighten him, he should not be petted or cuddled by strangers. This is especially true for young children.
You can also avoid certain situations in which he growls at you. For example, don't bend over him or get too close to him when he is eating.
Over time, you will learn what your dog likes and dislikes. This will make it easier for you to avoid unpleasant situations.
It is important that you watch your pet in these situations. Even before he growls, he is sending body signals.
These will vary from dog to dog. If you know your charge well and can tell when something is too much for him, you can change the situation quickly.
Sometimes your pet needs to get used to certain circumstances. For example, if he growls when you brush him, practice it with him carefully.
Stroke it before and during cleaning. Not too much at once. This will show him that it doesn't hurt and that he might even enjoy it.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should react calmly, get some distance and eliminate the trigger for the growl. Under no circumstances should you pressure or punish your dog. He is only trying to show that he is in an uncomfortable situation by growling.
Basically, the dog's growl is a means of communication. He is trying to tell you that something needs to change in the current situation. Maybe you have been bothering him too much or disturbing his food. Growling can also be a sign of pain or illness.
When running and playing, your dog may growl. In most cases, this is a sign of play, not aggression. It is an expression of excitement and enjoyment. As long as the play doesn't get too rough and both sides are having fun, it's nothing to worry about. However, it may be that your dog is afraid that something is being taken away from him and is growling as a result.
This may also be a sign that he feels uncomfortable or threatened.
Growling is a normal way for your dog to communicate. It shows that he is uncomfortable with the situation. However, if your dog starts to growl at small things, it is a behavioral problem and you need to do something about it. Read more in the article.
No, it can be friendly or playful. Not all growling is aggressive. Some dogs growl when they are feeling particularly comfortable or being cuddled. It is similar to the purring of cats.
My Conclusion
Growling is a normal behavior in dogs. They use it to show that something is getting too much for them or that they are in distress.
Still, don't take it lightly, but figure out how to avoid it next time.
If your dog growls at you, be sure to stay calm and definitely do not scold him.
It's best to take a few steps back and calm down. After a while, your pet will feel better.
As you gradually gain his trust, he will growl at you much less often. Find a way to handle these situations together.
If none of this helps, it is good to see a veterinarian who is also a behaviorist.
This will help determine if the growling has an organic cause, such as pain, or if behavioral therapy is needed.
A growling dog can be disturbing to humans. But with understanding, patience and the right response, we can help our four-legged friend and avoid conflict.
Every dog is an individual and it is our job as responsible dog owners to learn his language and respond to it correctly. Only in this way can we build a deep and trusting relationship with our four-legged friend.
My name is Anja Boecker, and I am a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant. With these articles, I want to help you to understand your dog better and to build an inseparable bond.
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My dog growls at the people who come to us, including my grandchild, who is one year old. I'm afraid that he will bite. What can I do about it? I got him half a year ago from the shelter. He is otherwise very sweet and likes to cuddle.
Hello, it would be good to involve a veterinarian who also does behavioral therapy.
Thanks for the tip s
My dog male 10 months,was sick since then I have problems with him .eye drops drip in is impossible he growls and if I do not go away he would bite me / vet does not go
What should I do?
Dear Gabi, in such cases it is always good to involve a competent person (trainer, behavior therapist) in your area.
Hello, my dog growls when I snuggle up with him in bed. Since he's not exactly small, I'm afraid he'll bite me at some point. He is also getting more and more jumpy. I am really worried. We are also planning to take him to the vet because of this. I can't explain this behavior. Earlier he even came under my blanket and cuddled.
Hello Dine, the growling can be a physical problem, but also a psychological one. Therefore, it is advisable if you visit your vet first. If no health problems (like pain etc.) are the reason for the growling, it would be advisable if you seek the support of a behavior therapist. Best regards, your Hundeo team
What should I do when the dog sits in the car I want to pet him and he growls at me and shows his teeth what can I do please reply
Hello, possibly your dog does not like to be petted during a ride. Therefore, we would recommend you to try it without petting. Should he also show this behavior on other occasions, the support of a specialist on site would be advisable.
Hello, my dog, a Labbi mongrel 3 years old comes up to me when I sit on the chair. He can be stroked and cuddled then all of a sudden he starts to growl. Is this a sign that he has had enough?
How should I behave in such a situation ?
Dear Kirsten, growling can have different meanings. Your behavior should be directed accordingly. It would be best to contact an expert on dog behavior in your area, so that this person also has the opportunity to get to know your dog personally. This would be the most sensible way. Best regards, your Hundeo team
My dog barks when the mailman comes.if he rings someone where he does not like dan he growls and barks like crazy is that normal.dan the stranger wants to open the door.
Hello, we recommend you to contact a dog school in your area. Surely the behavior could be overcome with intensive training of some basic commands. We wish you success in solving the problem!
Good morning. What can do when my dog growls at every opportunity
Hi Diana, in the article you will find many tips to help with growling.
With consistency and some time, you will surely be able to resolve many situations from this.
Hello, my dog comes from Romania. He is 4 years old and is a big dog. The dog mom didn't let anyone get close to her puppy because the dog mom had only bad experiences on people. She passed this on to the puppy. We have already achieved a lot, but new things are coming. The biggest problem is that I can't get him to the vet, I would have to push him. When he has something and I notice it, he growls. He shows you clearly what he likes or not. He has also attacked us. That has also become better. How do I get my dog to the vet. He already knows the muzzle. We have practiced, he remembers everything. And then later you have to take off the muzzle. It is not that simple. What kind of suggestion would you have for me.
Dear Iris, with dogs from animal welfare it is usually a bit more difficult, because many had to live under extraordinary and unacceptable circumstances for a long time. Even if their circumstances later change for the better, it is not easy for these dogs to come to terms with both their past and the new circumstances and to adapt. Therefore, general tips on individual problems would only be helpful to a limited extent. In such cases, it is always advisable to seek consistent and professional help on site, which will support you in helping your dog to rebuild a healthy basis of trust from scratch.
Our dog has been with us for a year, he comes from Romania and is about.3 years old.Everything went well for 1 year, now he often growls at us when we pet him .He seeks our closeness, offers to let us pet him and shortly after that he starts to growl.At first we thought it was because of where we touch him, but quite independently he growls no matter where we touch him. We don't understand it because he comes to us and seeks our closeness-where is the problem in communication?
Dear Franziska, especially in the case of dogs that come from abroad and whose past has mostly been quite bad, much is also unknown or comes out veiled, it is difficult to give a tip through short written conversations that would also be successfully applicable. Therefore, we always refer to an expert person on site, if the tips in our articles should not bring success. We thank you for your understanding!
Hello, our English cocker spaniel has started in the 9th month to growl more violently on a sleeping place when he 'claims' / protects toys or something specific to eat (lying under or close to him). After violent growling as a signal, as soon as you step into the room, look at him - if you approach only more, the Krutten increases dramatically - an attempt to take his toy / food , had with me already nasty consequences with bites ( 1x emergency ambulance). He is in puberty and the vet advises , the male dog urgently to convey who is 'boss' in the 'pack man and dog. It worked with a firm glove, in which he bit, whereby he should be pressed to Biden - according to dog school. Since then it is almost quiet- but today our 'little professor' got a new toy: he now lies curled up over it and growls as soon as you approach. I will try to distract him later with food ( at feeding time) and put the toy in the playbix- or should the toy stay there? What are you testing us please?
Hello, preventing a situation that is unpleasant and stressful for your dog, such as the urge to protect his toy, with another action that is unpleasant for him (letting him bite and pushing him to the ground), may not be the appropriate method for your dog, as an already existing stress factor is combined with another negative experience (pushing him to the ground when he bites). Possibly it would be helpful, if you visit a competent trainer, who practices with you a method, with which you can connect this too much loaded protective instinct or also the insecurity of your dog with a positive experience and wean off. It would be best if this person can also observe your dog on site at your home.
Hi. My dog growls at me when he is supposed to " out" things from his mouth. He does not let go of the things then either. Example: shoes, toys etc. But especially things he finds on the street.
My dog was always sweet and never braided her teeth,all of a sudden she gets mad. I give her everything, only the best and love. For some time she becomes grasping
.she is 3 years. taken as a baby. so dear. And now a predator, why only. she has apparently already at a small age a tumor in the head behind the eye.pity for my dear mouse
Lg.Renate what should I do???
Dear Renate,
we are sorry to hear that your dog seems to have a tumor in his head and his behavior has changed. A tumor can actually affect a dog's behavior because it can press on the brain and nervous system. This can lead to neurological disorders, which in turn can affect behavior.
It would be important that you carefully follow the instructions of your veterinarian. Keep track of the behavioral changes and make a note of them, such as when and how they occur. This can help your veterinarian monitor the progress of the disease and adjust treatment accordingly.
Provide your dog with a safe environment. Reduce possible stimuli that could lead to aggression and make sure that your dog does not get into dangerous situations as much as possible.
In some cases, consulting a professional dog trainer or on-site behavioral therapist can be helpful in properly managing the changes to avoid further stressors. VG, your Hundeo team.
Hello...
The assistance dog in training has now arrived at my friend's house. The dog is insecure and fearful, he growls and snaps at me, when I let him in the yard to make pee. I directly told my friend to bring it up with the trainer. My friend is also unsure and has not discussed it. How should I behave now to not further stress the animal, since I work alone in the household weekly.
Hello Luise, this is certainly an unpleasant experience for all sides. Please behave calmly. However, the problem should definitely be discussed with the trainer in charge, since this is also an assistance dog. Please try to convince the caregiver to bring it up with their trainer. The sooner it can be determined what the triggers are, the quicker or easier it is to take action.
Hello Anja, I have just watched your video. I have the following problem. I have had a 3-year-old male dog from the animal welfare organization in Romania for 3 weeks. Now he growls at me. It was really bad when I wanted to go to bed. My boyfriend was already in bed with his dog. Then he jumped out of his basket and hit me in the back. Of course I behaved wrongly. I ran out of the room in terror. I think he wanted to protect my boyfriend because he is only there at weekends. I'm really scared because he's coming back today.
Hello Silvia,
Thank you very much for your contribution. That was certainly a stressful experience for you. In a situation like this, it is advisable to consult a local behavioral therapist or dog trainer without wasting too much time. An expert can observe your dog's behavior and motives on site and give an individual assessment of what needs to be done.
Until you have consulted an expert, you should try to avoid situations that could trigger fear or aggression in your dog. We wish you all the best!