Dog Hates People But Loves Other Dogs

James Glover
by James Glover
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QuestionMy 2 year old male weimaraner loves dogs but hates people. He growls at anyone who approaches us when walking. If my husband gets up in the middle of the night, wyatt jumps up in bed and steals his spot. Then when he comes back and attempts to move him he growls and snaps at him. Only I can move him. Help learn to correct my dogs people problem!!!! (Erin Drasher - Virginia)

Answer

This does not sound like your dog actually hates people. It sounds very much liek he is over protective of you and sees your husband as a threat to your affection. You must show him who is boss, and he must learn his place in the family unit. Most dogs enjoy having a real 'master' who is in control without using violence. When he misbehaves by being aggressive you must show him your dissatisfaction by having the will to shun his affection and banish him from the room. Hopefully in time he will learn that he must behave well to win your affection. However, if he is already an adult this may take a long time or be impossible. Good luck!

Disclaimer: This service is meant to provide advice only and is not meant to replace an appointment with a registered veterinarian. Users should always seek a second opinion. Unfortunately we are only able to answer several questions per week so not everyone gets a published answer. And, unfortunately we can't answer by email.
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MurphyStout22
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Added on Aug 9th, 2008
I have a 6 year old Soft Coated Wheaten who pretty much does the same as you're decribing. He chases after my husband if he makes a sudden noise or drops something and he'll bark & grow at anyone except my daughter who comes to the door. We keep him in his crate when we have company. I've been told in the past to ignore him & although it's hard I am trying to do just that. I was wondering, when you're not home how does your dog react with pepole around your husband? Mine is like a totally different dog & will hide when company comes as long as I am not present??
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