[seeker1950]

My twin grandsons, age 10, were visiting. They befriended a little 7 year old boy down the street, who was on the back deck, getting ready to go into the pool. Fozzie, my golden mix, ran up to greet the boy, like he does everyone. I was on the deck with the boys, supervising, and for no apparent reason, Fozzie began barking very aggressively toward the little boy. I grabbed Fozzie by the collar, smacked his behind, and put him inside. I asked the little boy what had happened, and he said he was staring into Fozzie's eyes. I guess this is considered threatening behavior, but I'm shocked that Fozzie would do this to a child! I've seen him do this once before when my friend and I were in the pool and he barked like that at her as she was talking to him. He stood on the edge of the pool barking aggressively like he was going to attack her.

Having witnessed these two events, I feel I can't trust Fozzie. I no longer take him for walks, because if he sees another dog, or even a rabbit (especially a rabbit), I can't control him.

Since both of these aggessive events occurred with the pool, I'm thinking it has something to do with that. He won't let my other dog, small dachshund, near the water...acts like it's his territory, though he won't go in the water.

I've had Fozzie since he was 8 weeks old, rescued from the animal shelter,where he was with 11 other siblings. Half the siblings looked totally like German Shepherd dogs. The other half like Goldens. I have actually read that this can be a bad combination...resulting in temperament problems. I really don't know.

He is so loving and devoted to me. Very affectionate, coming up for hugs and love. He gets along with my other dog and cat as well.

Any suggestions, advice?

Totally NOT Fozzie's fault. I am sorry to hear that happened.

You are a good, caring pet parent, and there are many tools to help you, HELP Fozzie, get through the behavioral matters such as: behaving aggressively, acting territorial, barking, etc.

I think it is GREAT too that you are looking out for Fozzie's welfare by not walking him right now because you cannot "control him". You are aware of your limitations. Perhaps he senses that during walks and that is why he is behaving the way he is...

Unfortunately, by not taking him on walks though, he may feel as though he is missing out on something, getting less exercise, and looking to the yard as more HIS place.

The most important thing: Children and Adults alike should be instructed / taught to: (a) never touch an animal without the owner's permission and (b) never have a stare-down with a dog (they perceive it as an act of aggression).

It sounds as if he KNOWS you are the pack leader in the relationship; however, he needs to be taught by you to be respectful around others. He is just going by instinct and canine communication ("barking").

Therefore, I believe it would be highly beneficial to take him to some dog classes and/or have someone come over to show you how to teach Fozzie to behave properly. Can call your veterinarian for a few referrals. Perhaps s/he can point you in a good direction.

Good luck with Fozzie! I KNOW there is hope and things will get better. He just needs to learn who is in charge at all times

[Mike_J]

How old is Fozzie? I know sometimes a dog's personality can change as they get older. I have a Lab so I know how hard a dog that size can pull if they get excited. You could try to put a muzzle on him if you wanted to take him for a walk, that way if he got away from you he wouldn't be able to bite anyone.

[lizardlady]

Seeker, I'm going to second what the other's said. Staring at a dog is an aggressive act in canine communication. The little boy probably did not know he was acting threatening as far as Fozzie was concerned.

When's the last time Fozzie went to the vet? I always recommend a good physical to determine if there's mediacl reason for behavior changes in any animal.

After you make sure there's not a physical reason for his agression I'd recommend some training classes. You also might consider using a halter instead of a collar when you walk him. They give better conrol than a collar. Mike's idea of a muzzle when you walk him is also a good idea. Not sure if you can use a muzzle and a halter though.

((((Seeker)))) how are things with the Fozzster