Question:
My daughter rescued a dog from an abusive situation. He is protective and possessive of her. He is affectionate toward me until I approach her or her room, where he is often guarding the door. He'll bark and growl at me and stage a sham attack. On such occasions, I speak harshly and authoritatively toward him, but I'm worried about him doing this to guests or friends. How can we break him of this fierce protectiveness?
L.B., Charlottesville, Va Nov 01, 2009
Answer:
This kind of protective/defensive behavior is not uncommon in dogs. Our beloved 12-year-old dog Batman, rescued as a pup and imported from my wife's animal shelter in India, growls at her when she enters my in-home office.
Speaking "harshly and authoritatively" to your daughter's dog is a challenge that will only serve to intimidate and intensify his display of defensive aggression. He is being naturally protective of his territory and of your daughter, which you should honor. Temper your temper, and accept that this is how the dog is, rather than trying to control him because you feel rejected or afraid. Simply ignore him rather than reinforcing his adversarial reactions toward you. Pet him, groom him, and give him treats on neutral space in the living room and outdoors.
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