Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Shilo, just after turning 3 in April, has picked up a new "thing" that I need to stop asap. It seems to have come from nowhere.. He does not let MEN leave the house without a whole bunch of barking and circling and bother. He even does it when hub gets up to go outside. He's been with us for almost 3 yrs. so it's not a case of abuse from a male...and women friends can get up and go with no problem. I am reasonably sure he won't bite but ya never know and I'd like to avoid that! Any thoughts/ideas on how to stop this would be great! I'm having a hard time getting a male volunteer to come in and go out 3 or 4 times to test it...and not sure how to respond if I DO get someone to try it for me! Thanks in advance!

He has reached the age where male dogs become mature. One scary thing at this age is that it is the most common time for dogs to kill people! Three-year-old intact males are the most likely to do that! But short of that, it is a rather critical age for a large male breed. If he hasn't been neutered yet, it is urgent to have that done right away, as soon as the veterinarian says he is healthy for it.

Also ask your veterinarian to recommend a behavior specialist to come to the house, meet with the dog, and teach you how to handle this. By phone is not enough. This is urgent.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47

Thank you so much for your prompt response! He IS neutered...but I'll be calling the vet tomorrow. Will keep you posted!