I have a nine month old cocker spaniel bitch who is the sweetest little dog in every way but: my mum was in bed and she was lying on the floor next to it refusing to move when I called her, when I took her collar to lead her out she growled! I growled 'no' back loudly but did let go. She is currently in her first season so not sure if this would make her grumpy and affect her otherwise sweet temperament?! I don't even live here with her but she is quite attatched to my mum. What is the best course of action to take when she is threatening like this that will let her know it is not on but without provoking her more or getting bitten?! Thanks

Edit: Not sure that made sense, Molly does live with me but not in my mum's house! that's better

i know what id of done with the madam, but not sure its printable

Yes, they can get tetchy when they're in season, but they way to deal with it, I find, is to take no notice. If I get grumbled at I just say "That'll do" and carry on with what I was going to do anyway; no stressing, no confrontation. I just assume that I'm in charge and I can do what I want. Luckily my dogs aren't snappy anyway.
:)

My cocker was the same - had first season at 9 months, and even now gets quite grumpy when she is in season, like jean said - just say no or stop it or something like that, anything that she understands is no - i tell ebbie enough or quiet, and then carry on as though u are in charge - cos of course u are. She is just grumpy like all women at that time lol.

Nikki xx

i guess that is where the term bitchy came from!! I think we all know that feeling! :-)

'Ere, who are you calling bitchy??!! ;) :)

Thanks guys, will try this the next time if there is one! I did grumble back to let her know it was wrong but problem was I let her go and didn't move her so it was like she won It wasn't much more than a grumble and I really don't think she has it in her to snap but I have been bitten before by another dog so do get aprehensive that it may happen again which of course also doesn't help the "I'm the leader" act! :) Actually feel quite sorry for her as she's been a bit confused, like she's grumpy but doesn't know why ! Thanks for the feedback anyway.

There maybe some truth in the term bitchy as your young bitch is learning as in her first season she is running on 90% hormones. Unless the dog that wishes to mate with her does not go through all the proper posturing she will chase them away. It could be as you are seen as her leader and she may take you as making an advance to be discouraged so the growl. Next time no problemo. I not sure if this is the case as only had on GSD bitch but looking at dog body language it is possible. (is it April the 1st?)