Bridget has done similar to me - although not actually "gone after". If she has a toy or a treat and I got too close to her - she would do that low mean growl and snap her head around to bite. This all just started one day - she never did it before - then it was quite often. That worried me because I have a 10 month old grandson that visits often. I know it's important to teach kids not to approach a dog that has something, but sometimes they forget.
So I'm not sure I'm doing right - but whenever she has a treat that she is very fond of I make sure I sit next to her and pet her and every so often I take it from her - tell her "good girl" and give it back so she knows she'll get it back and is not losing it forever so there is no need to protect so much. She is much better now - and if she really doesn't want to be bothered - she will just grab her toy/treat and go someplace else - but no nipping! I know that my cat still can't get within 2 feet of her when she has something or she'll go after him (all 22 lbs of him). I think it's their trait to be possessive - but I do know how upset you must be - I was so upset when I realized she would actually bite me.
I'm sure someone more knowledgeable than me will have better advise, and I look forward to seeing what else I can do. Good luck!!! |