What do you do with a mean doggie?

Question

My Shepard/chow mix is always sooo mean to other dogs...she acts like she will be nice, until the other dogs gets close to her face. Then it's like something inside her snaps; she growls and jumps for the other dog. I've been trying to keep her away from other dogs, but it is hard, as I live in an apartment complex where others like to walk their doggies off-leash. Does anyone have any suggestions? She's 4 years old now, but she wasn't always mean like this and nothing traumatic happened to her to make her like this.

Update:

She was spayed at 6 months...and she loves the taste of the vinegar/water combo, as well as straight vinegar and straight lemon juice. (what can I say, she's a weirdo freak dog...) I've also tried bitter tastes with no success...

metzger52365 · Accepted Answer

First of all,your dog was not spayed way to late.Most Vets recommend waiting till dogs are 6 months before spaying,so that has nothing to do with your problem.If you dog has suddenly turned aggressive,and had no prior record of it,it could very well be a physical problem such as sickness.Take your dog to the Vet first,to rule out that problem.If the dog checks out ok at the Vet,it's an aggression problem.I would suggest getting help from a professional trainer for this.A Shepard/Chow is a good sized dog,don't mess around trying 15 different methods to fix it.you don't want your dog hurting another dog,or  possibly becoming more aggressive and biting another person.

cyanne2ak · Answer

She was spayed WAY too late, or not at all. I suggest carrying a spraybottle with 1/2 water and 1/2 vinegar in it. Spray her in the face when she does it. She wont' like it and it will teach her. Also, get a "muzzle lead". It's a leash taht wraps over the nose. It is NOT a complete muzzle, but gives YOU control of her head. Jerk on it and it will certainly get her attention. You can get them at PetsMart.

Jessica · Answer

i've heard that chow's are very overprotective of their owners. your doggy is just trying to protect you. but this behavior should definately be corrected. spraying the dog in the face definately works and its a good idea to get a muzzzle or something to have her wear until she stops the behavior, that way she doesnt seriously hurt another dog or person.

noahbalboa1 · Answer

i have one too. actually had two at once.  if you really love her and want to keep her you must take every precation necessary:  muzzles(if dont care for them go when &where no one is),harnesses, warnings, etc.  it's not an easy life. its very hard to even get someone to rent living spaces to you.  Most of the time they are protecting you and their own personal space.

Anonymous · Answer

Its called a head halter and just be careful when you use it because if you jerk on the leash you can hurt their neck.  Other than that, get a good trainer.

Anonymous · Answer

put her in doggie school so she will learn the correct way to act

pfflyers1 · Answer

invite Czar Malian over your house ...... no dog to much for him .... unless you are the one untrainable!!! You have to be leader of the pack! schh schh

What do you do with a mean doggie?

7 Answers