Our dog bites people in certain situations. How would you handle this and what do you suggest?

Hi Mr. Frawley,

I've been on your site several hours because it's the most informative and well written site on the internet. Thank-you for taking the time to put this all together.

I have a 2 year old female English springer spaniel. Smart, loving, companionable etc etc purchased from a show breeder. In my ignorance, because the dog is so smart and follows me around all day, I never did obedience training with her, my son taught her 'sit, paw.' She always came when called... And received plenty of exercise. She bonded with me - I have 3 teenagers.

Last month she grabbed something off a counter when I was gone. When I picked up the paper plate it was on, even though it wasn't near her, she lunged and repeatedly bit me at least 6x on both hands..... Infected ? antibiotics needless to say.

I called a behaviorist who came twice at $165 per hour he tested her for food aggression,,,, etc. said the dog thinks it's the boss. I didn't understand the importance or meaning of pack behavior and the fact that I didn't have her respect.

Two weeks ago, I tried to get her to go in the house by pulling on her collar. Again the same thing..... Lunging, repeated bites..... We brought her back to the breeder. Last week, we thought we found a perfect home. No children, big yard, beach etc. We explained that the dog needs training, thinks it dominant etc etc. The woman bonded with the dog and was doing everything 'right.'

Last night we rec'd a frantic call, that the dog lunged at the woman because the dog refused not to go to an off limits room. The woman also was bit and we took the dog back to the breeder where she remains........

I love the dog ? she loves me but as you said in your web site, there's no respect.?

How would you handle this and what do you suggest? I have a feeling what you will say... But I want every avenue to be explored.

In gratitude,
Ann