territory defence behaviour

Question
Hi, I am currently doing a course in the UK on canine behaviour which I have been thoroughly enjoying, for my next assignment I have to answer the following question and would appreciate any ideas you have.

Territory defence behaviour may exhibit itself by
a) excessive barking
b) threatening to or actual biting people coming into the property
c) letting people in, buy not out of the house
d) attacking the letters that come through the door

I have to explain how you might tackle each of these problem behaviours and would appreciate any input you may have to go along with my own ideas.

Thank you very much.

Answer
Hi Barbara, Threatening to or actual biting people is surely defensive behavior. I would address this issue by asking people who visit you to fold their arms across their chest, do not make eye contact nor speak to the dog. Have the dog on a leash if you feel uncomfortable or if your visitors are uncomfortable. Have them enter the home and take a seat. Let your dog come to them, but tell them to stay calm and in control of their emotions.  Excessive barking can be easily resolved, by quietly taking the dog to its bed and telling him to stay. I tell my dogs that they are "friends" if they really are friends, I say nothing but keep the dogs in their beds if they are strangers. If a dog lets a person inside the home, but snips when they leave, you need to work on being a good pack leader, take it for frequent walks...until it is no longer frightened (which can turn into aggression). As for the mail coming through through a slot in the door, claim the door as yours by not letting the dog go near the door for any reason, keep him/her at a distance while you take care of whatever happens at the door. I wish you the best. Please follow up with me to let me know how it goes, and leave me some feedback as it is the only way I can tell if you are happy with my advice. Thanks for writing. Regards, Susan