Expert: Marie Peppers / The Boston Terrier Lady - 6/23/2011

Question
My BT has always been very bully when it comes to behaving. He doesn't like to come when he's called and hesitates when told to get off furniture, etc.  Lately, he's begun to snap at me is I go to grab his collar. He's also gotten very fierce in defending his bed, cage and even the car we ride around in. People used to be able to reach in and pet him.  Now he'll growl and eventually snap if even I reach into the car. If people come into our kitchen and just stand near his bed, he'll start growling. Is he just getting old and cranky? He's 4 1/2. He's pretty healthy and all his shots are up to date. I give him a joint pill daily. He gets flee and heartworm treatments every month. He was a runt and is smaller than most Boston's. I try to fatten him up, but he's very active and athletic and runs off most of the food. He doesn't like snacks, either. He did get rather severely stepped on 2 Christmases ago, but didn't seem to be injured. Someone came into the house and stepped on his paw. Her weight was off, so she had to put more of her weight on him to balance herself before stepping on him. He cried and howled.  It was just a second, but I think he was traumatized.  That's when the snapping behavior started.

Answer
Wow Steve,  Well, some of what you describe is Territorial aggression - that's an easy fix with a trainer.  You need to have a trainer come to your house ( HIS turf) at least 2-3 times.

See this -  a good read on this kind of aggression:

Also, you may have some possessive aggression going on , too

http://www.aspcabehavior.org/articles/49/Aggression-in-Dogs.aspx

Also, you mentioned he may have some discomfort from an Old injury.
We use this Natural Supplement for Joint/bone/muscle injuries...
GREAT Natural Product - NO harsh drugs at all:
NuJoint Plus
see here to order:   http://www.nuvet.com/81098     ( it helps the body to repair and reduces inflammation....)


Hope this helps.  JUST a few private training sessions should help you and your boy.


BEST wishes!

Marie Peppers LPN MA