Expert: Have4Paws - 12/5/2009

Question
As a puppy my female beagle was always mild mannered, often extremely vocal but never aggressive. Within the last year her aggression has been progressively getting worse.

Every time you move out of your seat and she happens to sit in it, when  you come back and try to move her she barks like we're going to hurt her, or she's extremely angry. We're almost frightened to move her as she seems to give warning snaps, she's never bitten me or anyone but I'm worried one day she will.

This seemed to get worse after we moved into my husbands parents house there are 6 other people living here and another dog. She was never raised around other dogs since I've had her. I'm not sure if this is part of the problem now as she has become accustomed to the other dog.

I'm at a loss, my husband wants to get rid of her but I know that this is NOT an answer as I don't just give up on people or animals.

I wanted to post here to see if anyone had any idea why she may be reacting this way and give me some steps to fixing it if possible.

Thank you so much.

~Sarah

Answer
Hi Sarah, what you are describing is dominance. Somehow she has been allowed to think that she is in charge and she is staking out property as hers. The reality is she shouldnt be allowed up on the furniture without being invited by the ALPHA = you! You are supposed to be the ALPHA not her  and the problem would not exist if that was the rule. Now I know you certainly didnt intentionally do this as you appear to be a very kind and loving dog person. I am very happy to hear that you won't give her away as this is fixable and committments to an animal are supposed to be lifelong as you seem to understand.

The issue is that since this is an aggression problem it is not going to be fixable via emails. Please be careful of interventions or guidance you get this way. The only way to deal with aggression without making it worse is hands on with a qualified trainer. Just as you inadvertently allowed her to feel in charge in the trying of advice for agggression something could go wrong and end up reinforcing bad behavior. Please have a trainer come over for a couple sessions and work with you, it will be well worth it and avoid future issues. Best of luck!