Dog question

Question
My husband and I recently rescued an 8 month lab/hound mix. She seemed
to be real sweet & comfortable at our house.  She established Tony as the
master and takes to him.  Yesterday I was home a little while just the two of
us, Stella paced around nervously looking for Tony. She then jumped on the
couch pulling at pillows and barking loudly at me. I was scared and Stella
picked up on that.  I raised my voice "NO" stella "down" and she still just
barked & misbehaved.  I don't know what to do. I'm kind of nervous alone
with her. How can I establish a relationship with her to let her know I am in
charge as well.

Answer
It's always iffy to try to figure things out over the internet, but what you describe sounds more like a tantrum - possibly acting out because Tony wasn't there - than serious aggression. Still if you are finding you are afraid of your own dog, you need a good trainer or behaviorist who can help you see what is happening through their trained eye, and give you strategies to deal with it. While Tony may be pleased that "his" dog loves him, it would be a good idea if for a few weeks he could remain neutral towards her, and let you be the caretaker just to make you more relevant to her. It would also be good if YOU could take a basic obedience class with her.  Try working with her when she's not highly anxious or stimulated, and try not to allow yourself to be drawn into a battle with her when she is anxious and stimulated. Trying to force an anxious dog, and yelling can escalate the situation into something ugly and dangerous. The best way to impress a dog and gain her respect is to be the giver of good things, be calm and be clear(and choose your battles wisely). Finding a good trainer would really help you with these things. Best luck. Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com