food/toy aggression

Question
I have a 10 month old neutered chihuahua/pekingese, Mufasa.  He has started showing food and toy aggression towards me lately.  I found him in a box on the side of the road when he was about 4 months old, so I don't know anything about his history.  If I take one of his toys or something he's chewing on that he shouldn't away, or if I take his food away, he bites me; he's small, so he doesn't do any damage, though.  I've never had this problem with any of my other dogs, so I really don't know what to do.  What can I do to stop his aggression?

Answer
Hi Gina, He is showing you that he is the Alpha dog. I think that you should take charge and show Mufasa that you are the alpa dog in your little pack. Begin by getting someting to eat that you can share with him. When you offer him some, put the back of your hand towards him with the food hidden in your palm. Tell him "GENTLE", and if he is gentle give it to him and tell him he is a good boy. If he is aggressive about it, do not give it to him. Then give him a bone, toy or some food. Take it away and say "GENTLE-GIVE" at the same time. If he gets aggressive, stare at him, growl at him, and show him your teeth in a nipping/snapping motion like dogs do to each other. If he does not back off, growl louder, roll him over on his back and hold him softly by his throat, while glaring into his eyes. Do not break eye contact, stare at him until he looks away, then let him up and say "Good Gentle, Mustafa". You may have to repeat it a few times until he gets the idea that you are his Alpha dog. This is the way they treat each other in a pack. It is usually all threats and very seldom does anyone get hurt. Since he nips at you he is being excessively aggressive and really thinks he is in charge. Give it a go and let me know how it works out for you. Wear gloves if you must, so you won't get hurt. Please leave me some feedback, nominations if you wish, and let me know how things go. The only rewards we get for volunteering so many hours a day at this site is to know we have made a difference in the lives of people and their pets. Keep me posted please, you can simply repost a follow up. I would really appreciate it. I really care about how the two of you make out. Thanks. Regards, Susan