confrontation

Question
we have a 1 yr old golden retriever, he is a gentle dog which always lays down for a stranger to pet his tummy. There is an incident that he tried to steal food from the kitchen and saw by my husband, he said NO to him, then our dog came to my husband and looked like it wanted him to pet him but my husband refused. Our dog was gradually getting mad and started barking. We were able to pull him away.  My husband is very mad up to now and doesn't think the dog is safe to keep because it looks like want to attack him by barking and jumping on him but no biting. Our dog jumps sometimes when he is excited but it is improving  .
I think my husband is the leader in our dog's mind.   I am sure our dog already forget the incident but not my husband, he ignores it when it greets him. It is tough to see the wall between the dog and my husband. Any advice for him and me?  Thanks! karen

Answer
Hello Karen,

Your dog is not "mad" at your husband. Your dog is demanding attention.

This behavior would indicate that your dog is used to making demands and getting his demands met. It would also indicate that your dog views neither you or your husband as leaders.

Inadvertently, your husband is displaying the proper method for dealing with a pushy pet. He should ignore the dog and only give affection when the dog earns it. You should obedience train your dog and give him rewards such as affection, food and exercise when he obeys your commands.

Finally, regarding your husbands lingering anger at the dog....this is not warranted. The dog is only being a dog. I'm sure he loves you and your husband deeply. However, if you treat a dog like a human, he will treat you like a dog.

Good Luck!

Sandy