Expert: Nicole - 12/1/2008

Question
We have a 6 year old basset hound named Winston. We have owned him since a puppy. He is lovable cherished member of the family. He eats well mostly organic and due to past troubles he only feed him fresh meats, and really good dog food. He sees a vet twice a year. The issue has been lately he has snapped and even bitten two of my 18 year old daughter's friends. This is odd behavior as he is very lovable dog. The attacks are unprovoked and before he bite the one girl was petting him, then without notice he bite her on the face. He didn't bite hard, but all the same he bite her! We are at a loss as although Winston is well taken care of he knows his place around the house. He is not spoiled just loved. My wife thinks because he is not neutered maybe this is why the aggression. We are at a loss so any light you might be able to shed will be welcomed.

Answer
Hi Bill,

If this is in fact a new behavior, sudden aggression in a 6 year old dog is very uncommon.  'Attacks' are rarely unprovoked, we normally just don't understand the reason.  ;)  Him being unaltered would have no bearing at this late stage.

I would strongly suggest you take him in to see a vet and have him thoroughly checked out (blood work, physical exam, urinalysis, etc.) as sudden onset aggression is often due to physical discomfort or illness.

If he gets an all clear from the vet, please re-question me and we'll try to figure it out from a behavioral stand point.