Growling Dog: Tips to Stop Your Dog From Relentless Growling

If you don't like your dog to growl at all, you can try this exercise. Get a rope and play with your dog by trying to take the rope away from him. If while you are tugging on the rope he begins to growl, tell him "NO" and quit playing. Be consistent and your pet will begin to see that you don't approve of the growling, because every time he growls, you quit playing with him.

Make certain that your dog knows you in charge. This is harder than it seems, because you may have to prove this point to him to be seen as the alpha dog in your household. If he begins trying to show you he's the dominant one and begins to do as he wishes, he probably believes he's top dog. One way to get your point across that you are the boss is to not allow him to sleep with you in your bed. You can also keep his time on the couch or chair with you to a minimum. Also don't let him get impatient when it's dinner time. If you start to feed your dog and he growls, jumps at you or barks, don't feed him until he's calm again.

One reason a dog growls may be that he is shy or timid. If he seems timid, take him to a dog park for a walk, out to a new play area, or to meet different people and dogs. Socialization can help him become more comfortable and he won't feel like he's got to growl to show his emotions. You can also let your dog ride with you in your car to let him experience new smells, sounds and sensations.

If your dog growls, snarls, shows his teeth, or tries to bite or snap at you, it may be in both of your best interests to muzzle him whenever you go out walking. You don't want your dog to bite another human or animal.

Also make note of your dog's triggers, or in other words, actions or situations that cause him to growl or try to bite. If your kids like to wrestle with him or chase him into a corner and he becomes defensive, correct your children, not the dog. A dog will naturally try to defend himself, just as you would if put in a position where you thought you were justified. Teach your family and friends to respect your dog and its boundaries, and he will more than likely become less and less defensive.

Dogs can sense what you are feeling, and fear is something they thrive on. If you feel scared or send out vibes of frustration or stress, your dog will pick up on these. Dogs read emotion very well, and while you may not recognize that your mood is affecting your dog's behavior, it most likely is. If you are one that likes to scream or yell, your dog very well may feel intimidated, and in response, may growl.

As you can see, there are times you need to correct your dog for growling, and times you may need to correct yourself or someone else's behavior. If you make a safe, secure environment for your dog to live in, he will be more physically fit, mentally stable, and much happier.

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