goldrings

We bought a maltese last year from a breeder in town. The dog, Izzy, female, turned 1 year old in October. Our daughter is turning two years old this week.

Our daughter LOVES both of our dogs (a sheltie, peewee, and the Maltese). They usually play very well together. Peyton will throw the ball for them, play tug of war, give them treats, everything.

Well, last week, Peyton was playing with Izzy and tried to pick her up - Izzy bit her on the face and ran away.

Last night, we were all upstairs and Peyton was playing with Izzy. Peyton was not being mean or doing anything to hurt Izzy, but Izzy lunged at her, snarling and bit her on the lip & chin. It wasn't just a snap, it was a series of bites and the noises she was making were the same I've heard when dogs are fighting each other.

I yelled at her and she stopped, tucked her tail and ran downstairs.

So, here I am - we love our dog, but we love our daughter MUCH MORE and if we can't break the dog of this behavior, then she's going to have to find a new home. I'm always working with Peyton to be gentle and showing her the right way to treat the dogs. Peyton wasn't doing anything wrong when Izzy went after her.

So my question for all of you is: How can I train Izzy to know that this is unacceptable behavior?

We are thinking of having another baby soon and I don't want this to be a problem...

Thanks!