Our eleven week old puppy is adorable and everybody loves her but there is one problem which is worrying me in particular and it is when she is lifted at times she lets out a low growl especially if she is having her paws wiped. Should I be worried? I would appreciate any advice.

Thanks in anticipation!

The short answer is almost certainly no. This is about the only way a puppy has of saying, "Don't do that mum (or dad) I want to go and play!" At 11 weeks it is very unlikely to be anything more serious than that. The thing to do is to just say "No" in a quiet but strict sounding voice then immediately carry on GENTLY touching the paws whilst praising her for being good. It's all in the tone of voice, not volume. Just make sure that she is not in any pain in any way, it's highly unlikely to be that though, far more likely to be just her in a hurry to be off having fun. If you are still worried feel free to post again.

Regards, John

Hi
I tend to pretty much agree with John; it would be nteresting to know what breed your pup is.

What I would recommend very highly, really to give yourself confidence and to understand just how your pup's mind is working and how he/she will develop is to treat yourself to a copy of "The perfect puppy" by Gwen Bailey.

I am getting my new pup shortly and find myself constantly referring to this. It is such an excellent book, I always feel that if it was recommende (or included in the puppy pack by breeders) owners would have little trouble.

It is just possible your pup is getting above itself, and if this is the case you will need to know A) how to recognise this, and B) what to do about it.

The book is available from crosskeysbooks.com