So I'm not really sure where this post should go. I have a couple behavioral issues with my 2 year old rescue Am Bull/Pit mix. I've had her for a year now.

We did groundwork and basic obedience and continue to work on all of it. I have always thought of her as submissive, obeying almost everything I ever ask (except running away from me once to chase a rabbit and pulling on the leash trying to sniff things). She lays still for me trimming her nails and grooming. When I come home she goes belly up for me and is always trying to lick my face whenever she can.

2 problems. The big one is that twice now she has snapped at kids. First time she had just gotten done playing fetch with one of the kids... she was lying down with the other 4 kids sitting near her and all of the sudden with a quick growl she lunged and snapped at the 13 year old girl; luckily it just barely scratched her on the cheek. Didn't continue to go after her or anything, just one quick move. The second time I had her on the leash during a family gathering and as 2 younger kids ran past her she growled and lunged but I pulled her back.

The other issue is when I let her up on the sofa, she inches closer and closer toward me, stands up, steps over me with the front paws and then wants to stand with the side of her body in right up against the front of my face. She would stay there all day if I let her. If I kick her off she'll keep trying to climb up on me. I'm wondering if anyone thinks there is a reason WHY she wants to be right there.
Thanks for any help!
Mary

keep the dog away from kids


keep the dog off the furniture

Mary, do what Dennis says.

Your dog is not reliable around kids and it only takes a second for a tragedy to occur. I empathize with you; my dog is not child-tolerant, and I strictly supervise and limit her interactions with my 7 year old. She's never allowed to interact with other people's children.

My guess when she's on the couch is she is trying to show dominance over you. At any rate, it's obnoxious behavior and you shouldn't allow it. Keep a drag line on her and redirect her off the couch with it. If she keeps being obnoxious, put her in a down and put your foot on the line and keep her at your feet. If you do this a few times she'll get the picture...