[walks]

Hello all. We have a 3 yr old female Yorkie (Kelsey) that lately has exhibited some very aggressive behavior that has us very concerned, particularly given we have a 20 mo. old son and another on the way. I'll try to be brief.

We've had Kelsey since she was 8 wks old. Overall, she has been a wonderful pet. Her only formal training was a puppy class when she was 6 months old or so. She did well. She is exercised frequently. Much of the recent behavior issues seem to have coincided with two things: the arrival of our son and moving to a new home about a year ago.

Here are the issues:

She has gone after our son on a few occasions, growling fiercely and biting at his hands. Fortunately she hasn't hurt him. The behavior seems to occur either in the morning or evening and I'm guessing when she wants to be left alone although he doesn't provoke her in any way except that I presume she feels he's in her space.

She will sometimes "attack" me in a similar fashion if she is laying on me and I disturb her. This is not playful biting in any way, it is aggressive and willful and quite startling. Typically happens in the evening.

She has virtually no tolerance for strangers or other dogs. She barks constantly at people she sees out the windows. When someone comes to the door she goes ballistic. I can't even answer the door without locking her in another room. On walks she is better, as long as people or dogs don't get too close. I won't let children try to pet her because I fear she may bite them.

I know Kelsey is a fearful dog. My wife and I are increasingly becoming scared of her behavior, particularly toward our son. I suppose we will opt for professional help, but any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.