aggressive /dominant behavoir in bulldog

Question
I am a pet sitter. I recently began taking care of a 4 year old male bulldog named, Louie. The owner had a pet sitter before me but Louie began snapping at her when she put on his leash to go out for a walk. She then hired me. When I first met Louie he was very sweet and lovable. At first Louie was fine with me going for walks. Then he started lunging and charging me when I tried to put his leash on him. The owner said she would leave a leash attached to him so I can just pick up the end of it. The last few times as I picked up the leash he charged and jumped on me. I yell NO! and use my shake can. We go outside and he's OK. When we come insideI leave the leash on him when I leave. His charges are becoming more forceful. I told the owner to have him evaluated by Vet and a trainer.I think his behavior is becoming worse. She said he snaps at her as well when she puts on the leash but it's probably because he's had ear infections in the past and problems but she says that's the way he is. I think Louie has issues. She said that is just the way he plays. Any suggestions? I'm thinking of dropping Louie as my customer until he is evalated.


Answer
There is definitely something going on with Louie. I agree that you should drop the client until he is evaluated. I'm wondering how long this behavior has been going on with the owner. If she has been interpreting this as "play" this may be where the problem lies. He's gotten away with it so long it's out of hand.

I would eliminate the possible medical issues first and then go from there. This is something that will only get worse without intervention of some sort.

Good luck.