biting dog

Question
I have owned a golden retriever/chow mix for 3 years. She is a great dog except that she does not like new people in the house and has bitten several times only when the person walks near her. It has usually been by the front door. She does not give any warning.  She does not bite hard enough to break the skin. I introduce her to the new person and everything seems OK.

Answer

Hi Sheri,

Knowing that your dog has a history of biting means you shouldn't wait for a "warning" that she's about to bite, since you already know that you won't get one. You should always assume that your dog WILL bite. You need to do two things:

1. Prevent situations where there is a possibility that your dog could have access to other people or animals, and attack. Be diligent about this! When there is a knock on the door, or your doorbell rings, put your dog in a different room and shut the door... then answer the door. Don't walk your dog near other people or other dogs. If you see a person approaching, either turn and walk away, or cross the street.

2. Contact a dog trainer, since this is an on going problem. Your dog may be able be trained out of this, but reading about solutions isn't the answer.  You need the help of a professional. Your vet's office or a local boarding kennel might be able to give you a referral to a trainer in your area.

Part of prevention could be for your dog to wear a muzzle. A basket style muzzle is the most humane because it allows the dog to pant, and even drink water while it's being worn.

Your dog is a legal liability for you. If you don't get control of her, she could eventually bite someone who sues you, which besides costing you money, could lead to your dog being taken away from you, or even that she'd be destroyed. It's serious business which is why working with a professional trainer would be the fastest way of gaining control of your dog.

Best of luck,
Patti