Originally Posted by yorkietalkjilly  I've had rescue dogs put their heads under my hand seeking affection and then show teeth, growl/and/or snap when I gave it! This kind of behavior usually indicates a very insecure dog who has lost or never gained full human trust, is badly in need of strong, confident, loving leadership and guidance. I'd give him a job of getting to earn everything he gets, including sitting for petting, kisses, jumping up onto the couch, his food, to get potty outside, a toy or treat. Dogs love the 'Nothing In Life Is Free' program, truly enjoy 'working' for their resources and the teamwork and trust and respect for you it engenders.
I literally think the fun of NILIF reminds them of their innate genetic ability to forage for food - seek and track it, catch it, kill it and enjoy the fruits of their labor - the meal. Tibbe's favorite way to eat is from his forage toys/food bowls that require him to move a lever, move a sliding door, etc., to get a piece of kibble and will ALWAYS choose those over his regular bowl of food every time. Dogs love a job, love to work for what they get, love your praise when they obey and in the process, come to see you as their loving, giving alpha leader - whom they trust above all and will NEVER snap at in the normal course of daily living. Only a dog thinking he is or somebody in his little pack has to be alpha will snap, so if he has a strong, confident, loving leader, his very own built-in rules of hierarchy will prevent him from this type of behavior.
You also need to kindly teach him respect. Anytime you are holding him or beside him on the couch or bed,etc., and he shows ANY type of aggression, immediately say 'uh oh!', glare into his eyes and AT ONCE put him down on the floor and quickly get up, walk away. Don't look back and forget it - it's over. If he's on the floor when he shows aggression, say 'uh oh', loudly clap your hands and then point into his face, glare into his eyes and walk into his space as you continue to glare and point, forcing him to give way. The very moment he turns away, it's over. Turn and walk off, forget it. He'll soon get the message that that behavior is unacceptable and learn that the moment he involuntarily or voluntarily gives up his place of power, it's over. |