Expert: Jannie Balliett - 1/30/2009

Question
My 3 year old male boxer whom I have owned for almost 1 year now. Previous owner said he never had any problems with the dog. About 3 months after I got the dog he bit my 10 year old son. This incident I let go because the dog was eating at the time. On a couple of other times he had shown agression without biting but I also thought nothing of this because he seems to be very protective of my four kids and I. He listens very well and knows I am the alfa of the family. Then a few days ago I took him to the vet due to a broke dew nail. I informed the vet tech to muzzle my dog and she said the dog was fine because, he was wagging his tail. Mind you my dog was already nervous due to being weighed, retal temp, and new people/place. Next thing I know, tail wagging and all he bites her on the face and causes her to get stitches. He did growl and bark while doing so. As soon as he heard my yell no he immediately stoped. Other peeople say I need to put my dog down, I cannot stand the thought of him losing his life for protecting himself or his family. What is your opinion on this matter?

Answer
The previous owner is not telling you the whole truth-- there was something that causes the aggression.

Leash him, and keep him leashed when taking him out. Put a mussel on him with a leash, when taking him to a vet.

Leash him, and allow him to play at home, but the minute he becomes aggressive, tug the leash and verbally reprimand him.

The best thing to do is buy a dog whistle, or loud whistle, and blow it each and every time he becomes aggressive. Then reprimand him and make him go lie down in a designated place for 10 minutes.

Be consistent. This will signal bad behavior at the time, is not acceptable and gets a time out by the whistle sound and action.