pom behavior

Question
hi,
I adopted a pom from a local shelter. The story was that his owner had become ill and was unable to care for her dogs.  We've had him for almost a year now.  He's about 3 1/2 yrs old and neutered.
My question is regarding his extreme territorial issues.  He needs to mark (urinate) anything new in the house, and is very vocal and defensive of myself, my kids and our home.  If he gets out loose accidentally, he will go after anything that moves very aggresively- cars, walkers, and even once, to my dismay, my neighbors small children.  I don't believe he would bite, but he will go right up to someone and nip at their pants.  
He seems to be very dominant and headstrong, though I have succeded in teaching him simple commands.  He is wonderful with my kids.
Is this territorial behavior normal for Poms?
thanks,
Lisa


Answer
Hi Lisa,

Some poms are more territorial than others.  My pom is very protective of his home and family.  

Dogs are more likely to urine-mark if they have an exaggerated view of their own importance within the household. When a dog is strutting his stuff without due respect for his owners, a dominance control program is warranted. Confine your dog when you can't supervise him, and supervise him whenever he's loose in your home, just as you would a dog who isn't housetrained. Practice "nothing in life is free" with your dog. (See website):
http://www.ddfl.org/behavior/territorial_marking.htm

Check out this site for help with chasing:
http://www.perfectpaws.com/chase.html

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Best Regards,
Carrie
PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS.