Help

Question
I got my puppy Miley about a week or so ago, she is 7 weeks now and the most cute adorable cocker spanial puppy that was the runt of the litter of 8 pups.  Now the problem I'm having is she at times gets an agrssive bark and growl and it's not just a play bark or growl she's sounds almost mean. My husband and I have told her No firmly and then she does stop, but then she'll do it awhile later.  Now I do have three children and my youngest son is 2 yrs and he can be a little rough with Miley and I'm trying to really watch that.  Miley is really good with my son but I'm scared if I can't nick this problem in the butt now that she will be a mean dog,I didn't know a puppy could have a mean growl at such a young age,  I really need to know what to do cause if this keeps up much longer I don't know if we should keep her.  Please help
Thanks Sara

Answer
Okay, Sara...NOW is the time to nip this n the bud.  If you concentrate on this for just a week you'll end this permanently.

When she growls, get down on her level, look right into her eyes and say NO quietly but firmly.  Do NOT lose eye contact and keep saying NO until she breaks eye contact and turns away.  You win.

She's not being a "mean dog" but she is trying you on and this is a display of dominance.  Totally natural but unwanted.  The eye contact is you being the dominant one.

Also NOW is the time to establish that the kids are above her in the pack order.

None of this is hard to do and now is the perfect time to do it.  I hate to see a puppy given up just because an owner doesn't know how to establish leadership.  What's so good is you're aware this has to be dealt with asap and, at her age, it's pretty easy to do IF you ooncentrate on it
for a short time.

I'd be happy to help you and to make this quicker and easier, you can write me directly at DeeBeck7765@aol.com.
Trust me - this can be history and you'll have a lovely cocker in short order.
Delores