Aggressive Yorki-Poo puppy

Question
Hello,

We have a four month old Yorkie-poo named Bella.  We have had her for just over three weeks.  She weighs about 2 lbs. 5oz.  So far she has been a great little dog.  However, sometimes when we're in the yard she will get a leaf, apple, rock, stick, etc. in her mouth.  When we try to take it away from her she runs and then growls, barks, and tries to bite us when we take it out of her mouth.  She has done this a few times when we have taken away her favorite chew toy as well.  She does it most often when she finds something in the yard that she knows she's not supposed to have.  We have tried saying "drop" and then exchanging it for a treat.  This works sometimes but after she gets the treat she tries to snap at us and get the object back.  She also growls, barks, and bites at our feet when we walk.  I realize she's a puppy but this growling and biting seems aggressive.  Today we tried to trim her hair a little bit and we gave her a bone to chew on while we did it.  She did pretty well but when we got to her face she growled and bit us.  She was so mad that when we tried to pick her up she was biting and growling at us.  I am worried because I do not want a little dog that cannot be around children for fear she will bite them.  I also don't want to be afraid she's going to bite me! She's still a puppy and I want to end this aggressive behavior as soon as possible.  I want to have a friendly, safe dog.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Sara, Don't let her know that you are afraid. Bella is just challenging you and you simply need to let her know that you are the alpha dog in her pack. As soon as she shows the slightest aggression, gently roll her onto her back, hold her softly by her neck and stare into her eyes. Do not break eye contact until she turns her eyes away. The only command you need to give her is "Gentle", if at all. Set her up: give her a goodie, take it away, and be ready to roll her over and hold her in position. She may struggle and rebel at first, but she will quickly learn that you are the pack leader and will not tolerate bad behavior. Soon you will have your sweet Bella back. Leave me feedback, a nomination if you wish, and follow up to let me know how it is going or if you have any more questions. As volunteers, this is the only way we know that we are doing a good job for you. I am very interested to hear how you make out with Bella. If you need any more techniques, simply follow-up with another post. I will look forward to hearing about Bella's good progress. Thanks. Regards, Susan