shih-tzu charging child

Question
I many Shih-Tzu's, Actually I raise them. They are all loving very well behaved, well "barky" when someone comes to my home. We are working on that. I a trying the Ceasar approach, its sort of working. Now my big issue is My female shih-tzu, 11 lbs. Beautiful, submissive--to submissive. Loving, so very loving. I have a daughter that is 8 months old she is great with her; however my friends daughter is 3 years old, the dog is fine so long as she walks slowly and makes no sudden moves. If she makes sudden moves Peanut will charge and almost as if she wants to nip her. She has not nipped her, but i am so very afraid of it. I scowled her, or assume dominance over her. I have tried to have the 3 year old, scowled her. NOT HIT her. But have the 3 year old try to show her that she wouldn't harm her. I realize this question is all over, but it is so hard to put the problem in words. She only just started this about 8 months ago, by the way she is 2. Like I really am wondering if I am going to have to and trust me I really don't want to but find her another home. THIS IS SOOOO the furthest thing in my mind. It is odd because they were the best of friends before, Peanut was so very good with the 3 year old. Then it was like a light switch. BOOM she developed a very hostile dislike for her. Please if you can offer me advise.
Thank You so very much.

Answer
Hi Miriam - I sure do understand your concern for your little shih tzu.  Yes, this sure can be a problem.  Something had to have happened with your Peanut and a small child.  There is just no way that " all of the sudden " she would have changed her attitude on toddlers or small kids.
Yes, because of this you may need to place her in a back room upon the arrival of any small children ( other than your own).  When they arrive and are seated take Peanut out and place her on a leash.
Bring her over to the guests and have her sit close but still under control of a leash.  Allow her to be closer with your guidance.
The minute she seems to get upset tug on the leash and hiss at her or make the big noise that Caesar does on his shows...
If she is too aggressive, place her in the back room in a crate for 15 minutes and then try it all over again.

This is the only way she will GET it.
And you have total control.
Remember - I firmly believe something was done to upset her?  Behind your back???? Who knows.

BEST of luck and have fun!

Marie Peppers LPN MA

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