Need some advice (sorry long)

Last year my family adopted a dog, who is now 3. We love him more than anything, but lately he has been showing very aggressive behavior. I feel like this is my fault because I have always treated him like my second child, not really a dog. I allowed him to sit on the couch with us, and sleep in the bed. But yesterday my son laid on the dog and he got very mad and bit my son's face. My son was fine, but it scared the crap out of us. I don't think the dog would ever intentionally hurt my son. His face was red, but cleared up right away. It didn't puncture his skin or leave any bruises, but I am really afraid now. I am pregnant with child #2 and worry what he could possibly do to the baby if the baby went to sit or lay on him. The dog has also been growling a lot more lately if we tell him no, or get down. So my question is- how do I gain back control. Is it possible to retrain the dog? I feel like I need the dog whisperer to come in and help me. I would like him to start sleeping on the floor on his own bed and I don't want him on the couch anymore. Is this even possible? Last night I closed the child's gate at the top of the stairs and left the dog downstairs with his bed hoping he would sleep down there. My dh woke up to find the dog standing at the top of the stairs waiting for us and we think he was there all night. I felt so bad. What do I do? I feel like such a bad pet owner right now

Re: Need some advice (sorry long)

I dont really have advice, I dont know much about dogs. But just wanted to offer hugs

Re: Need some advice (sorry long)

Well it is possible to re-train the dog, but it could take time & money to do so. Since it seems the dog has already asserted itself as the Alpha in your house (even over you & your DC) my recommendation is to have someone come in as a new trainer/Alpha to help you regain that position of authority over the dog.

I know it is sad & tough to see the dog like that, but the more you give in the more aggressive the dog can potentially become if you give in.

A few posters on here use MuttManners & others use Bark Busters. I'd start there & ask what they do for dogs beginning to show aggression.

Good luck & I am glad you are going to try & retrain your pup to again become a member of the family.

Re: Need some advice (sorry long)

As MsMBV said, the best bet would be to have someone come in and help you retrain the dog.

A lot of people on here have had success with BarkBusters...I know DMck and June262004 have used them and liked them. I think Junie said it was $600, but they come back whenever you need them to and it's a lifetime committment.

Good luck to you, you are doing a wonderful thing.

Re: Need some advice (sorry long)

I highly recommend Bark Busters:

www.barkbusters.com

Good luck