Chihuahua Male and a bitch in heat

Question
My 7 month old Chihuahua is in heat for the first time and she is in a separate cage from our 2 yr old male.  When she is in her cage and he is sitting infront of the cage he will BITE you if you come near.  There are time he wont let me open either his or her cage because he will attack you.  He is very sweet tempered, as is she.  This has come at us from left field and now I am concerned.  I don't want him biting anyone.  Can you give me some help??  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Veronica,

You didn't say if your male dog was neutered or not. Neutering may help with his aggression.

You obviously have a problem having a dog that you're afraid to approach in your own home. That's totally unacceptable.

People do successfully keep aggressive dogs, usually by managing them very carefully concerning their contact with other people. However, you - the owner is even at risk of being bitten!
It's impossible to tell online whether this dog has a temperament problem, or whether it's a management or handling problem as the cause of this behavior.

The dog might be salvageable, but it would take in-person professional to evaluate this situation. Ask your vet to recommend a behavior specialist to meet with you and the rest of your family with the dog. I hope things go well.

Best of luck,
Patti