Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog nips one child but is fine with other kids. What's going on?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 7 months old

I have a 1 and a half year old lab mix and multiple children in my house hold but my dog is having behavior issues with only one. He is a 4 year old boy and my dog has nipped him a few times but never broken skin, my dog is also completely lovable with the other kids so i have no idea what could be going on.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 12th, 2018

It's possible the boy has done something inadvertently to startle Glenn. Watching to see how they interact may clue you into what is going on such as if a cup or utensils or toys get tossed around near Glenn, this child is much louder, pulls on ears or tail, etc. Monitoring both when they are around each other is a good idea as well as you don't want the nipping to escalate. Aggression is a very serious issue, so making sure to watch for signs that Glenn is becoming uncomfortable (stiff body, baring teeth, trying to get away, etc) can alert you to this so you can get in and remove him from the situation before anyone is harmed. As aggression is a very serious issue, i would also recommend bringing in a trainer or behaviorist that can observe what is going on in in person. They can help determine if there is something triggering the behavior that needs to be adjusted, or if any additional training techniques can help diffuse the situation. http://www.dacvb.org/about/member-directory/ is a listing of animal behaviorists that are certified within the US.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored