possessive dog

Question
I have a 3 year old poodle, she is a very sweet dog, but lately she has been charging at anybody who touches me.  Any family members can sit by me, etc. but when they try to touch me or hug me she jumps and charges at them.  She just recently started doing this.  My husband was gone for 3 weeks and she slept with me in the room the entire time, I am thinking that is when she started getting over possessive.    When I call her by the name when she does this, she walks away, so she does listen.  What can I do to change this behavior.  Thanks.

Answer
Hello Taunia,

I have seen this same behavior in a dog I had years ago.  I am not a behavior expert so I am not able to give you much help.  

Your dog needs to be corrected when she acts out.  One thing I have heard, is to take your dog to another room and leave her there for a few minutes (door shut) and then bring her back in with your husband and see if she continues.  If she does, repeat this until she responds better.  Dogs think in the "now" so you may be giving her a sign that it is not acceptable to act that way.

Sure hope this helps.
Susan Potts
www.spottsgrooming.com Grooming & Pet Food