Aggressive New Dog

[kariah]

My son (8) and I re-homed a dog a few days ago and he is being aggressive to my son. Hasnt actually bitten him but growls/snarls and snaps. He also humps him when he can (been neutered). I am aware this could be down to finding his pecking order/alpha male etc and this is new surroundings but do you think training would work? I've read various experts opinions online but they are divided as to how much chance you take when it comes to the safety of a child. Thanks for any advice. The dog is a 3 year old pugXbeagle. xxx Ps my son hasnt been alone with the dog at all so no chance of him bullying the dog.

[keithlbw]

Get shut of the dog ASAP....It's not worth taking a chance , the dog can inflict life changing damage to your son...What is more important to you ,the dog or your sons safety.

[utepoot]

I wouldn't get rid of the dog straight away...get in touch with your vet who will most likely be able to help you, either themselves or by referring you to someone trained in dog psychology. Most dogs can be trained with the right amount of patience and perserverence!

[kariah]

My heart and instincts tell me it really isnt worth the risk - although I thought maybe I should see his behaviour for another say day or two. I've sought your advice as certain family members (who always put their dogs first, bite, jump all over etc), think bad of me for suggesting re-homing. Its one of those damned if I do damned if I dont situations! But I damned sure I dont want my son hurt! Thanks again everyone x

[wildwood]

You've sort of answered your own question, the dog is trying it on to see if he can be higher up in the pecking order. I am however puzzled at your uncertainty about the need for training. You should not leave your son alone with the dog until it recognises its position in the household. Take your son to the training sessions so the dog knows where it stands. A confused dog is a dangerous dog.

[bunkmoreland]

quite frankly i take this thread to be very suspect ! new aggressive dog and 8 yr old son and you're asking for advice!!

[beso]

The vet can help. They have these injections that will ensure the dog is never a problem again..

[tamborine]

I use a stern voice & say 'leave' when my dogs misbehave. If they misbehave around a child I stand beside the child and reinforce the 'leave' & tell the child to do same beside me.

What kind of dog is it ? If you're nervous with it then you should return it to the Rescue & they can socialise it.

[woofgang]

First of all the dominance thing is total crap and has been debunked. Did the rescue assess the dog with children? Dog is in a new place with all new experiences, you know he is safe and loved, he doesn't. Get back in touch with the rescue and tell them what is happening ask if they have a behaviourist who can help. You may decide to return the dog, that is up to you. If you decide to keep him theme give him loads of space, places to hide and be patient, se a baby gate or similar to keep him and your son apart for th moment till he settles. There is a great rescue and advice site called Dogpages ((google for it) the forum there has loads go good advice and experience. Please do not be tempted to try and enforce your will on the dog, the growling is saying he us not happy, it is possible to suppress that then you have. Dog whose only way of communicating fear and unhappiness is with a snap.

[Nosha123]

You need to seek urgent dog behavioural advice and urgently! You must not under estimate the effort and input you are going to have to give to a rescue dog if it is to have a happy home. Friend of mine got a puppy and had months of problems before they finally cracked it and found a trainer to help them.