The other day my sister-in-law stopped by and my dog placed himself between her and my kids and then growled. Should I be concerned about my daughter's saftey?

Hello Mr. Frawley,

I have a very large 4-year-old male (neutered) Irish Setter and two small daughters - ages 2 and 4. My kids spend a lot of time with the dog and he has never shown even the slightest sign of aggression toward them. He follows them around the house and seems to view himself as their "nursemaid."

The other day my sister-in-law stopped by the house (she let herself in) when my kids were playing with the dog and I was in another room. When the dog saw her, he placed himself between her and my kids and he growled when she approached. This is the first time that he has ever growled or acted aggressively, and in fact he has met my sister-in-law a number of times before (though I or my husband was always present).

After that incident, I decided to hire a trainer to help me work with the dog. I also have not left my kids alone with the dog since that happened. Should I be concerned about my daughters' safety?

Thanks for your help,

Alannah