Pets
Q: My boyfriend moved in with me and my 6-year-old beagle. Unfortunately, my dog showed his teeth and tried to attack my boyfriend. This dog is very protective of me. We were lying on the couch and the boyfriend just walked up, wanting to play catch with the dog. Maybe he was standing in an intimidating way. The beagle has (been aggressive) before. If I’m sleeping and someone approaches, he will growl. Any advice? My boyfriend is traumatized.—
M. O., Chicago
A: I’m not sure what to do about the traumatized boyfriend, but I do have some advice concerning the beagle. It would be one problem if this was the first time your dog behaved aggressively, but apparently he’s had lots of practice.
“As time has gone on, my guess is that your dog is simply more comfortable pulling the ‘I’ll be aggressive’ card out of his pocket,” says Chicago dog trainer Jamie Damato. “If you have any inkling what triggers your dog, avoid those triggers at all cost, even if it means not lying on the couch with the dog in the room. It may be prudent to put a leash on your dog so you have more control.” Damato says her suggestions are only short term to keep you and the boyfriend safe, and so the aggression doesn’t escalate. However, what you really need is help from a professional trainer, canine behavior consultant, or veterinary behaviorist.
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Q: I don’t want to offend the squirrels, but I’m worried that one day my dog might catch one outside. How do I stop my dog from chasing squirrels in the backyard?— P. S., Skokie, IL
A: You could put a sign saying, “Danger: Squirrel-Chasing Dog.” However, the chance of the squirrels reading the sign are about the same as your unsupervised dog not chasing them.
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