My rescue puppy attacks women and other pets. What should I do?

Question

My 12 week old puppy came from an abusive home. Since adopting her, she has cornered my family's dog and lunged at her jugular in an unplayful manner. She also has snarled and attacked my mom and I, but she is nice to all the men in my family. Before coming after us, her eyes change, she appears stiff and if planning the attack, and then lunges with her entire mouth open. We are a household with lots of kids and other animals around, should we be concerned? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 23 days old | 9 lbs

Juliana, DVM · Accepted Answer

I’m so sorry you and Luna are dealing with all of this. I would absolutely be concerned with having Luna in a house with other dogs and children at this time (and maybe ever). It is not only potentially dangerous for the children and other dogs, but it will be stressful on Luna as well. I know it is always hard, but it may be a good idea to re-home her to a more quiet home, perhaps with a male owner if she seems to respond best to them. In the meantime I would separate her from the other dogs and kids and keep her daily routine and training very consistent. Providing a lot of exercise, and positive reinforcement with training. When she masters basic obedience and gains confidence then working with her around other dogs etc. will be more successful. If re-homing her is not an option I would definitely enlist the help of a veterinary behaviorist to work through her aggression in the safest, most effective way possible. Sending you a lot of luck, these situations are always so hard.

My rescue puppy attacks women and other pets. What should I do?

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