4 year old border collie

Question
Hi, we have just brought a 4 year old border collie he came from a home with two young boys but that is about all we know about the home. The problem we are having is he keeps growling whenever my 11 month old baby crawls toward him. This happens even if he is on the other side of the room from him. The dog doesn't growl when he walks past my son only if it is my son moving toward him. I also have a 2 year old little girl who is away at the moment with her grandparents and the dog is supposed to be a surprise for her. The growling doesn't bother my little boy but would really upset my little girl. I don't want either of kids getting bitten or getting upset. They are never left on their own will the dog and never will be but dogs are just so fast i'm a bit worried. If there is anything you can suggest which you think might help I would be very grateful gemma

Answer
Hi, Gemma,

I have to say, I'm a little concerned about the situation. You have two children that are very, very young and a dog of an unknown background and temperament that you say is growling.

Border collies are typically very smart dogs.  It takes a diligent, patient, skillful owner to train them.  I fear also you may not have the time, with your parental responsibilities, to spend the necessary time with this dog.

I don't normally suggest a person re-home a dog, but I think this is an option I feel you should consider.  Perhaps a more mellow breed, such as a bassett hound or golden retriever, might be a better choice for a family with small children.

If you feel you are up to the challenge of working with this dog, I would go to the following website (www.apdt.com) and find a trainer in your area that is experienced with fearfulness and aggression in dogs.