How to train a protective dog that nips male guests at home?

Question

Well it’s been about a year since we rescued him and he’s made a lot of advancements! One area I’m trying to better, he needs me to hear me say it’s ok tob to let someone in the house. Ok he’s protective. But even more, so a guy. My daughters can have their boyfriends over, he needs permission then Their total attn. They go anywhere in the house he’ll follow and try to nip their calves. They sit down and he’s jello wanting love. If he could talk, love me vial man oh yeah you “sit! stay!”. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 7 years and 4 months old | 37 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

I'm glad to hear Tobias has been making improvements! Protective dogs can be challenging to train and modify the behavior. Wolves are naturally protective of their territory and don't want trespassers. Certain dogs will also exhibit this behavior to a degree. In their mind, they are doing the right thing for the pack and the territory. However, most of us need a dog who is accepting of people they don't know in the house. Additionally, he may be trying to 'herd' these people to an area where they will sit down and he can get attention. Dogs are very clever like that sometimes. I recommend to read some of the books written by a trainer named Victoria Stilwell. She uses a positive reinforcement only approach for dog training and behavior modification. You may also need to help of a professional trainer for those last few tweeks you want to make. Until you know the exact reason for Tobias's behavior, it may be difficult to know what else to do to get the desired response. Best of luck.

How to train a protective dog that nips male guests at home?

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