Expert: Elaine Allison CPDT - 4/1/2008

Question
I have two mixed Chihuahuas, one of which has been acting out. He is about three years old and about a foot high, and he used to be very playful. Recently though, he's been acting aggressive. He never bit strangers, but now he seems to have a problem with anyone new that he meets. Also, he is overprotective of family members. He attempted to bite me when I tried to hug my sister, and he does the same to her when she tries to hug me. He barks and growls a lot when someone tries to pet or cuddle with him and wants everything his way. He doesn't like it when we call our other dog, a girl ( much older than him and our only other dog), and tries to seek attention away from her and onto him. He's closely attached to her as well. Recently, our other boy dog died, and I think this helped to increase his anger and aggression. The thing is though that he didn't even like that dog, he was very jealous of him, so I don't understand why this would bring about a behavioral change. My family and I aren't sure of what to do with him and we need help!

Answer
Hi Esmerelda,

I would say that with the passing of your other dog, this little guy is unsure about where he is in the world now. He sounds like what we call an "alpha wannabe".

Make his life easier, make the decisions for him-he'll be happier. He doesn't get to dictate who hugs who, or who gets petted, or deciding what new people are OK.

If you can run him through some basic obedience cues such as: sit, down, go to your spot, wait and go away that would help. none of those simple requests are compatible with aggressing. He demands attention: send hi to his spot. He aggresses-send him away from you. Meeting new people-sit.

What i would avoid is heavy handed "as seen on TV" training. That will only increase his problems. Have you read the other end of the leash? great book about how we relate to our animals with loads of training tips!