Agression towards visitors

[StressedRose]

Hello again,

A bad day today. My Dad turned up and Poppy went crazy (barking, growling, lunging). She has met him a couple of times before. I had her behind a baby gate and tried to ignore her. I gave her treats when she wasn't barking. I then put on her a lead and she eventually let my Dad feed her treats. But she growled and barked when he got up to leave.

I feel demoralized and worry that she will never get over her fear aggression.

I remember watching a Programme with Victoria Stillwell dealing with a dog with similar issues. She recomended putting the dog on a lead and approaching the person on neutral ground and then stopping a distance apart. The visitor ignores the dog but throws treats on the ground.

They then went in yhe house and kept the dog seperate and again ignored (no eye contact) but treats. Then they brought the dog in but carried on ignoring and throwing treats on the ground.

Its worth a try. It could be well worth the money to contact a qualified behaviourist too. Isn't she still young? Puppy ownership is full of highs and lows, hang in there.

Hi fanoftheinvisibleman,

She is 1 year (about 14 months), although the RSPCA did not know her exact age.

What breed is she? Has she met any other women yet?

Mongrel,

she is ok with my mum and sister, fine with OH. Does not like men and people who talk loudly.

That is still fairly young in terms of learning and maturity though isn't it? I'd try behavourist help if you haven't already.