Have you done any of the things we suggested?

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Originally Posted by spop

My dog has been getting violent with me when I touch his food tray and water bowl. I think I understand why that happens. But now when I by accident drop something that belongs to me in front of him, I get scare. When I try to pick the item up, he growls and snaps at me. I always have to distract him before I can get my item back. I'm tired of this. Any training advice? :eek:

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Your dog thinks he is the pack leader because you are not taking on the leadership role eeffectively. Dogs are pack animals, and more dominant dogs will step up and try to control the resources if you do not lead well. The easiest way to learn about this is to rent some Dog Whisperer videos and see how Cesear Milan helps family deal with this problem. A lot of dogs lose their homes because humans don't know dog psychology.

I think I'm beginning to understand my dog a little more. He loves to explore and examine things, and when you try to take that away, that's when he gets violent. On top of that I know that dogs also become violent when they feel threaten or neglected, but this I am in no way doing to him.

When I go outside to see him, he can be the nicest dog in the world, but do something to make him mad and...

Just coincidentally, I saw an episode of the dog whisperer just today. I will try and explain. DO NOT try and remove anything from his mouth. Also do not try and grab anything without claiming your space. Your dog thinks he is the pack leader, and your boss.

You need to have a calm assertive manner. Don't try and sneak up, and don't feel or act afraid. Think of it as teaching your child not to touch a hot stove. Don't panic, just walk up like this is YOUR house, and be the boss. Your body language will say a lot, and your dog will pick up on that. Act like your are the captain of a team, and you will set the rules.

Put whatever bone or toy down, and then claim it as your own. I don't mean pick it up, just block him and give him the 'ssshhttt' command, (or whatever command you want to use) and don't let him get to the toy, by using the command over and over. Once he gets the toy, you can give the same command, and tell him to drop. If he gets aggressive again, claim your space again, by standing firm and calm, but head up shoulders back.

Don't leave the toys sitting around on the floor for him to have whenever he wants. He only gets them when he is calm and submissive. Not in an excited mode. Make sure he is relaxed, and never get him excited by saying... look here's your toy!. or anything in an excited tone.

I sure wish I could explain this a little better to you. I don't think I did a very good job of explaining that, but I hope you understand it a bit. It would sure help you to get one of Cesars video's or books, and learn the proper way to do it. :)