I’m posting here because, as the title says, my dog is acting aggressively towards some members of my family (my dad and my brother).
It’s been nearly a month since I adopted him, and he’s been wary of my dad and brother from the very start. At first, we thought he just didn't like men in general, but when my sister’s boyfriend visits, he’s absolutely fine and really happy to see him.
We’re getting more and more worried that he might actually bite. My dad and brother are really trying their best, giving him treats and trying to stroke him, but nothing seems to change.
When he growls and barks, we tell him off and send him to his bed, but I’m not sure if that’s the right thing to do.
We’re considering calling in a dog behaviourist, but I’d rather avoid it if possible as I’m a bit short of cash.
If anyone has any advice or suggestions, I’d be really grateful.
Thanks in advance.
Translated from French
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If he’s happy to go over to your sister’s boyfriend, it means he doesn’t necessarily have an issue with men. If he’s slinking off with his tail between his legs, then those definitely aren't play-growls... He clearly doesn't trust your dad or your brother. Their body language might be a bit too intimidating, or they might be being a bit too pushy.
But he’ll still just keep growling and barking at them. I’m going back to the dog training club this Saturday and there’s a behaviourist there, so I’m going to have a chat with her anyway to see if she can come round for a home visit.
We’re already doing that—making sure they’re the ones who feed him. They always have treats in their pockets too, for when he comes over to give them a sniff. But then again, you have to keep in mind that my dad and brother aren't really animal people in general, so they aren't that bothered. I don’t know if the dog can pick up on that or not.
You haven't had this dog for very long, and since you don't know his background, it’s possible he might have been mistreated in the past. To start with, your dad and your brother shouldn't try to approach him at all—especially if he's stuck to your side. They need to completely ignore him whenever they're in the same room. Bit by bit, he’ll realise that their presence isn't a threat. You can help strengthen the bond through food—your dad could put down his bowl in the morning and your brother in the evening (if he’s fed twice a day, or they could just take it in turns every other day).
He’s about a year old. I don’t know his exact age as he’s from a rescue centre after being found on the street, but based on his teeth, I was told he was born around September 2018.
