hi
i have the most gorgeous black cocker spaniel.he is 17 months old and very friendly with adults, kids and other dogs. he's always mouthed, particularly if u wave your hands about too much. we've attended dog training since he was 14 weeks old and although a slow starter he's now doing quite well. i love him to pieces but he's becoming quite aggressive, really nasty at times, growling and trying to bite me. this usually happens over toys and food though mostly u can take them off him with no problem, every now and again he goes for me.the other night i wanted to go to bed, he wouldn't come in cos he had a fresh bone outside, he growled and snapped and tried to bite me- i was so upset. it can be really scary and i'm afraid he might do it to someone else. i just sobbed my heart out the other day. i have no idea what to do about it.i'm so worried. i try to grab him by the scruff and shake him telling him no but this can be quite difficult when he,s in a frenzy. i also shut him in the kitchen and ignore him. please help.....i'm desperate to sort it out.thank u.tracey

Without seeing the dog's body language it is impossible to tell whether he's reacting out of excitement, anger or fear. But whatever the reason, meeting aggression with aggression will only make matters worse. I suggest you see a qualified trainer (see the list here or ask your vet to refer you to a reputable behaviourist (not one from a franchise who advertise in the Yellow Pages).

It does sound as if things have escaleted too much into a confrontation between you and you do need help; this sort of thing can usually be solved as long as the owner is committed (which i am sure you would be) and there is nothing medically wrong with the dog :) I agree the best way is to get help in and get advice from someone experienced in this type of problem.

Good luck

Liindsay
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