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My 9-month-old dog is aggressive and biting. Are my kids safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 10 months old | 60 lbs

We have around a 9 or 10th month old dog. Since he was around 4 months or so we have been swapping dog sitting duties with my father in law , who has a 9 year old golden ret. recently my 9 month old started biting and holding the back of the Holden's neck whenever they go to leave a room, and has been generally more aggressive. What should we do? Is this going to keep being a problem? If he is trying to show dominance, are my kids safe?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 1st, 2017

It does sound like from your descriptions that Graham is starting to act a little aggressive, and I would take him into a professional behavioral expert as soon as possible for training. I never recommend owners try to train aggressive dogs themselves because it can be dangerous, so it's best left to a professional. Aggressive behavior can escalate, and it can continue to be a problem. Without seeing his behaviors in person, I can't say for sure if your kids are safe around him, but I would not leave him unsupervised with them just to be cautious. I would speak to your vet first thing in the morning about a referral to a behavioral expert.

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