Rescue Dog

Question
We just took in a rescue lab/rot mix. She is about 5 1/2 and is around 80 lbs. We got her as a companion for our current dog. Other dog is a beagle/cocker mix and he is about 5 1/2 as well. He was a rescue and we have had him for 4 years. We have had a few fights over balls. Both dogs are ball hogs but the new one is a bully too. She bit him on his head and broke skin. They growl at each other from time to time. But we only got her last Sunday. I expected some conflicts between the dogs. But my real problem is that she growled then snapped at my youngest daughter, almost 2 years old. I understand that she was scared but it worries me because of how strong her bite could be. She has shown no signs of aggression. How can we get her to accept the children with out scarring her more?

Answer
Little squabbles between dogs is normal in getting adjusted to each other and a new home. I'd only bring the balls out when one dog is present. The snap at the child does concern me though. I think that snapping at children is one of those situations that - if you want to keep the dog - is best addressed by an in-person professional. There is so much information not available here, that I can't see over the internet. In situations which are potentially dangerous, I just won't guess what is going on. Because if I guess wrong a child could be disfigured and a dog may have to die. There are some dogs more suitable to a home with only adults or older children. If that's the case, better to send her back to the rescue before she has a bite record. And if you do choose to keep her, you need to supervise carefully until you can get someone out to help you. I would keep the dog completely separate from the toddler until then. Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com