sasha

Question
hi sasha is a 4year old rottwieler who has always been protective around her food but over the weekend a friend called round and sasha was on the sofa when he lightly tapped her to move she snapped at him my concern is that i have 2 young children and am nervous of her being round them now. what can i do?

Answer
Dear Claire,

Thank you for writing to me.  I am not going to beat around the bush with this situation.  You have a very powerful dog and small children.  There is nothing here that can't be remedied but you need a behavorial trainer who uses positive reinforcement (preferable clicker training) to come in, access the situation and work with you and your family to ensure the integrity of the pecking order in your pack.  There are certain steps that have to be taken and it needs to be done now, not later.  Ask your vet for a referral.  You can also contact a vet teaching school in your area for a referral.

In the mean time do not allow your children to be left unattended with your dog.  This is advice that is given across the board for any dog.

Do not allow your dog up on furniture. If necessary, tether your dog to a piece of furniture when not being monitored so that she isn't able to get up on beds or couches.  Make her sit/stay before being fed or before entering or leaving.  If she shows defiance, do not let the situation escalate.  Reward for good behavior.  Your trainer can show you all of these techniques and make certain that you and your family understand them thoroughly.

Educate yourself with reading books or viewing tapes by Karen Pryor and Ian Dunbar.  Both offer excellent information.

Please tell your friend to stop tapping your dog. When you start working with a qualified trainer the entire household situation will become a safe and peaceful environment.

Best,
Shelley Davis