I have become the owner of a rescued adult male. The only potentially negative issue I have observed has been an occasional vocalization (not a full on growl, but more of a huff) towards other dogs when in closer quarters. Never a bite, a lunge or a snarl.

This seems to mainly occur in the home or in a vehicle and I have a multi dog home.

Example:

Dogs go out for walk together. Upon return, a small huff is given when waiting to go back inside.

Vocalizing dog is in car and a second dog is also put into the car.

My rescue is is my room, and another house dog comes into the room.

My initial thought is that this a case of thinking I need protection or wanting to establish rank with the other dogs.

The dog is very socialized and was in a foster with other dogs, where he did not challenge for rank.

In all cases I have corrected with a quick "No" and the behaviour immediately ceases with a look of "I'm sorry" on his face.

What I am looking for are suggestions for positive training exercises instead or just a negative correction.

Dog is extremely food driven and has never required more than a harsh word.

Although food driven, never ever seen any sign of food dominance or toy dominance.

Thanks in advance,

Jim

Jim,

Ok A: You may not like the simplicity of my advice, and B: I am sure someone will say something a lot smarter then me.

My first thought is if the dog is pretty much just giving a huff with no aggression then I dont see to much what the problem is. Over time I would think this behavior would die out with you ignoring it.

Probably the easiest way to train this out of him I would think would be to leave your dog in one room and keep bringing in your bring in your other dog over and over, give him a correction every time he huff's and when he starts, reward him when he dosn't.

Just my simplistic thought on it.

Michael.

Mike,

Thanks. Yes, I also do not think this is an aggression issue and is mainly a huff of displeasure.

My concern is that I don't wnat the dog to think that vocalizing displeasure is acceptable and I also don't want to be too sharp.

I like your idea and as I see this behavious most often when the dogs are coming through the front door together I think it is relatively easy to fix.

Jim

Good advice Michael! I concur.

 Quote: Joy van Veen

Good advice Michael! I concur.

I try.