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I need advice


I have a 15mnth old son and my 7yr old staffie doesn't like him every time my baby goes near him he growls even if he doesn't touch him, i would like to try and solve this problem before having to rehome him which i really don't want to do but i'm scared he might bite my baby he is fine with my older son who is also seven

jo-jo




Oh, how horrible for you. I have never experienced this myself, so I can't be much help really, only to state the obvious, to not leave them alone together. I'm sure someone with behavioural exprience will be along soon to help. Good luck to you - I really hope you don't have to rehome.....




Is there anyway you can install a dog gate and keep your baby and dog apart because it certainly sounds a bit risky at the moment. Your baby won't know not to grab the dog or cuddle him a bit too hard or if he accidentally falls on him when toddling around, its an accident waiting to happen. Don't know what else to suggest really maybe someone else can suggest something. Hope you find a solution




What a dilema for you!! As others have said-don't leave them alone together, ever! Did your dog arrive before the baby? Maybe he feels a bit jealous?




i have a gate but i don't like the dog locked up as he's not used to it and this stresses him out




i got my dog when he was 5wks old and my other son was a baby then so they grew up together




If the behaviour is new, I would get him checked by the vet in the first instance, just to rule out any physical problems that you can't actually see at the moment. If he gets the all clear from the vet then I suggest a behaviourist. You should separate the child and the dog IMO as you really are putting them both at risk by not doing this. HTH




Have to agree with the others , you need to seperate them .... use the baby gate, its better than having your dog turn on your son! it also might give the dog a bit of rest bite from your son.......... while you get this sorted...... Can`t offer any other advice ............I am sure there will be someone along soon who can help!....... but for now its better to be safe!




i haven;t experienced this so can only make a suggestion. I dont think you should leave them unattended but perhaps when they are together and you are there try and instill good associations with your baby and the dog. ie: whilst you are feeding the baby or giving the baby attention - have your dog sit and give him a biscuit or something like that so that then he can associate good behaviour with your son around. perhaps he feels a bit jealous ?

not really sure as never had this and can appreciate that it must be quite stressful
thing is if he was ok with your other son and still is isnt like he is really aggressive ??
dani




In my opinion (and thats all it is as a Mum and being owned by dogs) keeping them apart is exaserbating the problem. You are in your dogs eyes exagerating the baby / dog jealousy bit. You need to seek the help of a professional in dealing with this. You child obviously needs to know that you love him as does your dog. They can in most cases live happily together its just a matter of juggling to get the right mix!

Good luck and please don't give up just yet; also don't keep the dog shut out for all your sakes. I know that this is hard when you are trying to protect your child.

I don't know its too late but ... I had dogs before kids and when I bought each baby home I put a muzzle on the dog and placed the baby on a blanket on the floor - and let the dog have a good sniff! It took time to allow the dog in the room with out a muzzle (a Halti followed just for extra safety and control if needed) it did take time and patience but was well worth the result!