Biting Beagle

Question
Not sure if you can help me but here goes.We took in a 2 yr old beagle about 4 weeks ago.she was really great at first.I also have my granddaughter living with us shes 3 due to an auto accident her mommy was in.well at times now the beagle gets real funny and doesnt want my granddaughter around her,and 2 days ago bit her really hard in the thigh.  It didnt break skin but a blood blister then a huge huge bruise on her thigh from the top teeth and and a bruise on the under leg from the bottom teeth,we've also just learned our granddaughter is allergic to cat and dogs let alone a dozen other things,could you tell me whats going on with the pooch ? Shes srarting to growl at all of us.And I'm very worried shes going to really bite my granddaughter a whole lot worse next time.Could you please if you can give me a little insight on wwhats going on with her ? Thanks so much Dawn

Answer
It is confused about who is in charge.   It is quite possible it is used to
being in charge, and intends to stay in charge.  Likely it is already spayed,
but do so now if not.  Dogs with behavior problems should never be bred.  Then
you need to take over as top dog.  Having a good pack structure reduces such
problems.  The dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog.  Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones.  You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class.  A good obedience class or book is about you learning to be top dog, not the dog learning it gets a
treat if it sits.  Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/

A top dog does not put up with biting by a lower status one.  Give a warning
stern "Bad Dog!".  In stubborn cases, I repeat the "Bad dog!" right in its face with the dog on its back. Hold it down until it lifts one back leg to show submission.  Use one forearm under his jaw to keep his teeth away from your face.  Another very
effective technique if the dog is small enough, is to pick it up with your hands
behind its front shoulders and hold it out with its back to you.   Make sure it
is far enough out it can't fling its head into your face.   Hold it until it
quits struggling and relaxes.  If you can't do either of those, try the squirt
bottle.  Fill it with water and a little vinegar or lemon juice.  Give it a
squirt in the face as soon as it misbehaves.  Dogs hate that.  Beagles have a reputation for being stubborn.  The solution to a stubborn dog is an owner that is even more stubborn.  Every time he snaps or growls, he immediately gets which ever bad consequence works best for you. Don't forget the praise and petting when he finally yields.

A biting dog is no end of problems.   I suspect she has had 2 years of doing
as she pleased.  I doubt she will give it up easily.  In time, she will and be a
happier dog for having the strong leadership dogs need.