Expert: Delores Beck - 8/2/2010

Question
Hi we have a 2 and a half year old male cocker spaniel. We have had him since 12 weeks old. Over the past 6 months he has started growling and nipping/biting men he does not know, when they go to stroke him. He does this both indoors and when out walking on the lead. He does not do it all the time but i would guess at least 80% of the time and it appears to  be at males only. We do not recall any incident for him to be afraid of men. We have a young son and so far he has not growled or bitten him. Please can you advise us as this change in our dog is very concerning.

Answer
Don't worry about your son.  This is strange males.

What to do is first of all, tell men he doesn't know to back off.  If he's growling, step between him and the man (blocking his view), say No (calmly) and ask him to sit.  Once he obeys, give him a treat and say "let's go" and move on.

In the house, do the same and put him on leash.

He may think he's protecting you - so give him the message it's all cool and YOU are in charge.
Delores