I've never posted anything before, so I hope I'm doing this right. I need help with my beagle (Droopy)!! He is 5 years old. 13 months ago he and I moved in with my boyfriend. About 3 months ago, Droopy started attacking my boyfriend, totally out of the blue and for no reason. Example: tonight we were watching TV. I was lying on the floor by the fireplace and Droopy was beside me. My boyfriend walked by to go sit on the couch and Droopy lunged at him and started barking ferociously, hair raised, and snapping. We have no idea why he's doing this, nor how to make him stop. We need help!!! If he doesn't stop this behavior, I'm afraid I'll have to get rid of him. I've had him since he was 7 weeks old, and he's helped me through a divorce. Suggestions???

Right on Helly! I would have said exactly the same.

Originally Posted by Helly

Droopy is probably acting this way because he's jealous and he has no respect for your bf. But before you undertake correcting the problem, you should have him evaluated by a vet to be sure there are no underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to his behavior. Hypothyroidism is a major factor in aggressive behavior.

If he checks out ok at the vets, your bf needs to establish his place as a leader in the family, and earn Droopy's respect. If possible, he probably should enroll Droopy in an obedience class with a trainer who has experience with behavioral problems. It's important to have professional help so you can avoid either one of you being bitten. An experienced trainer can observe Droopy's behavior and guide you through the necessary steps involved for your bf to earn Droopy's respect.

I agree 100%!!!

Your BF could also start being the caregiver for Droopy. He is the one that feeds him, takes him out to poo and pee, takes him for walks, and whatever, that will give your dog the facts that hey, he is important, and he may stop the possesivness that he is showing towards you.

Originally Posted by Helly

Droopy is probably acting this way because he's jealous and he has no respect for your bf. But before you undertake correcting the problem, you should have him evaluated by a vet to be sure there are no underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to his behavior. Hypothyroidism is a major factor in aggressive behavior.

If he checks out ok at the vets, your bf needs to establish his place as a leader in the family, and earn Droopy's respect. If possible, he probably should enroll Droopy in an obedience class with a trainer who has experience with behavioral problems. It's important to have professional help so you can avoid either one of you being bitten. An experienced trainer can observe Droopy's behavior and guide you through the necessary steps involved for your bf to earn Droopy's respect.

this woman saved me some time...I was thinking the same about the jealousy don't get rid of Droopy, give him a chance to mingle with your bf, and your bf should give him treats and play around with him (under your supervision) Droopy is your son BF is his stepdad...handle the problem keeping this in mind!!!!

lots of love!!!