[Dailydrool] a menacing growl

[Pam Chandler]

Has Murphy been to the vet recently?  If not, I'd have him evaluated to make
sure there is no physical reason for him to respond in that manner.  You
said he was drowsy.  Some dogs, especially older ones with arthritis or
other pain will react to protect themselves is someone touches them when
they are asleep.  I'd make sure that Murphy is fully awake and aware before
petting him.  If there is no physical reason for Murphy's behavior, I'd
suggest you go to a behaviorist for an evauation.


Pam Chandler

Bossanova Bassets
http://bossanovabassets.com

President, Shasta Kennel Club
http://shastakennelclub.com


On 7/18/08 9:36 AM, "dailydrool-request at dailydrool.org"
<dailydrool-request at dailydrool.org> wrote:

> A menacing growl-need help
> To: dailydrool at dailydrool.org
> Message-ID: <bef.2b5c4eb7.35b21048 at aol.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
> 
> I have a situation and I need some insight.  We  previously owned a female
> Bagle, Abbie - no problems...loved her and lost  her to chronic liver failure.
> We adopted Murphy who is full-fledged  Basset, the most lovable and responsive
> dog we have ever owned - needy....very  needy, friendly as all get out and
> loving EXCEPT - this is the third time when I  have been talking to Murphy and
> petting his head  and down his back that  he starts with a low warning growl
> and on one occasion escalated to him  actually baring his teeth and snapping
> at 
> me, throwing his head back towards my  hand resting on his back.  Are male
> bassets more prone to this type of  aggressive behavior than female bassets?