Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My new havanese puppy growls at my 7 year old son. He doesn't do it all the time, usually when the dog is close to sleeping and my son tries to pick him up. Of course, if I tried to pick him up or my husband tried, there would be no growling. My son has always been afraid of dogs, so he isn't 100% comfortable around the puppy, but he's doing rather well. I'm trying to combat this by having my son take the puppy out for walks and give him his food, but there is still the occasional growl. The puppy is only 12 weeks old and we've had him for a week. Any other ideas?

Right now, it's probably best that your son doesn't pick the puppy up. I'd have your son do training with the puppy, though. Have your son hold a treat up and tell the dog to sit (and then treat) or other easy commands--like "come". You might also have your son be the one to put down the dog's dish at feeding time. When your dog is old enough to take classes, I'd have your son join you.

>>My new havanese puppy growls at my 7 year old son. He doesn't do it all the time, usually when the dog is close to sleeping and my son tries to pick him up. Of course, if I tried to pick him up or my husband tried, there would be no growling. My son has always been afraid of dogs, so he isn't 100% comfortable around the puppy, but he's doing rather well. I'm trying to combat this by having my son take the puppy out for walks and give him his food, but there is still the occasional growl. The puppy is only 12 weeks old and we've had him for a week. Any other ideas?

I fully agree with Arrow. Right now the pup is pretty young, but training classes are a good start. Many places including Petsmart and Petco offer a puppy class. I would strongly suggest it being a family event. Dogs need to learn that they come under the child in order of importance.

Another thing, is to leave sleeping dogs lie. Is this the ONLY time when the puppy is growling? When your son disturbs it during sleep? If that is the case, do not disturb during sleep.

Another thing to look at is the possibility that with his smaller hands and fingers, if there is a spot that your son may be irrirating or maybe there is something there that is hurting the dog when your son picks up. Remember his hands and fingers are smaller and he may be picking up wrong or hitting places that are different. The pup may also not feel as secure in a 7 year old hands.

Just some additional thoughts. But family field trip to training classes is a must.
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Cindy & the bully boys
CGC Brutus the bullheaded bulldoggie
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