I need advice on my dog!!! LONG!!!!

I have a puggle named Missy and she is a bit crazy at times. I am pregnant and due in February.

My problem with her is that he has possession aggression. Her aggression is more with things that she knows she cant have - like socks, underwear, slippers and even paper and toilet paper. She is very high strung and very active. All around she is a good dog and very friendly to everyone. She loves people. Basically, besides jumping on you, she only gets aggressive when trying to take those items out of her mouth. I can take a toy out of her mouth, she growls but like a playing growl. I can also put my hand in her food bowl and pet her while eating and she doesnt even flinch.

But, like I said, with those other items she growls and snaps (she has never bit us yet). It also seems as she loves to steal these items also. Its like she looks for them to chew on.

I DO NOT want to get rid of her at all. Not unless I necessarily have to. I agree a lot with Lolita, Regi and all the other pet lovers on this board. Just the thought alone of getting rid of her gets me so upset I start to cry.

I already have had a trainer for her when she was a puppy because she nipped us a lot.

I just need advice. I know that most likely we will need to get a person that is experienced in this area. I just figured maybe someone knows something that i can try before spending the money. Im actually gonna apply to be on the Dog Wisperers show. I'll will try anything to fix this problem of hers. I love her so much!!!

Re: I need advice on my dog!!! LONG!!!!

the only thing I could suggest is to be VERY firm and stern with her when she resists giving up these items. And, if she snaps at you, you have to be VERY stern. I think it's mostly about asserting that you are the alpha and dominant to her.

The other day, Casey stole an uneaten bagel out of the garbage. I started to take it out of her mouth and she resisted- she didn't snap or get aggressive but she didn't let go right away. I got very stern, and yelled NO!! She gave it up- but looked disappointed in me....

ETA: I'm sorry you are going through this- I'm sure with a trainer it will be just fine- I know as a fellow expectant mom that so much feels uncertain and everything feels more scary....

Message edited 8/28/2006 3:38:37 PM.

Re: I need advice on my dog!!! LONG!!!!

I agree with this, I think you really have to demonstrate to her you are the leader of the pack. When JJ gets fresh I immediately role him onto his back and put my weight on his belly to show dominance. While he's not perfect at listening I do believe he thinks I am his pack leader.

Re: I need advice on my dog!!! LONG!!!!

Have you watched the dog whisperer? Most of the dogs seem to have the same issue- they want to be the pack leader. You MUST be assertive and consistent and don't put up with the slightest bit of aggression.
Make sure he is getting enough exercise also.

Re: I need advice on my dog!!! LONG!!!!

you haved fm.