My 5 year old biting beagle

Question
Hello,
I have a 5 year old pure bred beagle that I have had since he was 6 weeks old. He is normally very loving and affectinate that loves to be around people 24/7. Within the past three years he has started biting me and the other adults in my family. The only time it happens though is when he gets into the garbage and gets bones, and when we try to take it away from him he snaps. But I can put my hand in bis food bowl while he is eating and it doeasnt even phase him. And today I tried cutting his nails which he hates, and he growled and snapped at me. Then I attempted again and he did the same thing so I grabbed the scruff of his neck and told him NO but he continued to bare his teeth and growl and he bit me and actually drew blood. When I try to discipline him for this it just makes it worse and he continues to growl. It seems to be maybe fear aggression. I dont know what to do I, will not destroy him and cant stand the thought of giving him away but im 3 and a half months pregnant and im afraid he will only get worse. PLEASE HElP, is it possible to break him of this???

Answer
It is absolutely possible to break him of this and please do not even think of putting him to sleep. Unfortunately this has not been dealt with so it has escalated and it will continue to do so without intervention. What you are describing is food aggression AND fear biting. Now that being said, there is not a thing I can do for you in an email. You need to find a hands on trainer immediately to come to your house and deal with this, This requires an experienced trainer in person who can work with your beagle boy and you as well. For the time being do not use any form of punitive discipline, aggression breeds aggression. You CAN start doing some of the leg work though of showing him you are the Alpha while you arrange for the trainer. When you feed him he must go in a sit first and stay for a minute or two until you release him to eat. If he moves or gets up he doesnt eat until he does what is required. This is part of the "no free lunch" program. As well, he should not be allowed on your bed or furniture while this attitude exists. He must "ask"/earn everything. No petting without sitting, no toys without sitting etc. You are reestablishing who is in charge. This will not however be enough to cure the biting so please call a trainer as soon as you get this. If yuou don't know of any ask your vet or local shelter/human society. This can definately be fixed with the right handling.