Boxer snapping

Question
I have recently adopted a boxer, between 8-10 years old, male who was abandoned at a shelter. He is a friendly, well educated dog, quite attached of e and my boyfriend, but he has this behavioral problem: when he is (gently) grabbed by the collar he turns and snaps at you. First time he did it when I tried to take him to the bathroom to give him  bath and I thought it was because he was afraid of the water. But then he did it again when he went into a restaurant's kitchen uninvited and my bf tried to get him out by taking him by its collar. The third time he was trying to chase the cat and my bf tried to hold him still and scold him. I was afraid to start training him as I thought he would bite me, but I am aware of the fact I have to get over my fear and try correct his behavior. Can you please help?

Answer
Hi Raluca,

Biting or snapping at humans is a dominance behavior, and the problem did not develop over night. Your dog thinks of himself as the "pack leader". In the dog's eyes he owns the house, and all the possessions within.

A dogs who reach this stage can be corrected. A qualified obedience instructor or dog behaviorist must intervene. The humans in your family will probably be asked adopt a new regimen of behaviors to interact with the dog. The professionals suggestions must be followed to the letter, because there is little margin for error.

It's going to difficult to break the habit of snapping if his collar is held, given the fact your dog is 8-10 years old. The snapping is undoubtedly a life long problem for this dog, which is why I recommended professional help.

Until you can locate and get started with a behaviorist, it would help to keep the dog's leash on when he's inside your home. This way, if you need to move him to a different room, or prevent him from chasing the cat, it will be easy and safe to lead him away.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti