We have adopted a 6 year old black lab, he is fabulous but he doesn't like my dad. He's great with my husband and brother and male members of my husband's family so it's not as if he has a problem with men, but he growls and barks whenever my dad comes near. They've never been alone together so I can't understand what's happening, can anyone advise please?
Hi Monty, We have the same issue with Max who's nervous of pretty much everyone and he learnt that barking/growling often removes his fear as no one sticks around for a big 35kg black lab x I'd recommend a behaviourist to help but I can tell you how Max overcomes his fears but it is a slow process If i know we're having guests over i make sure hes tired, at least 2 or 3 hours walk Usually we arrive home when people are already in the house so he's not barking like a lunatic when he hears the door I leave the lead on him and ensure nobody pets him, talks to him or even looks at him Once he's comfortable he'll go to them, especially if they have food...food = friendship making This doesn't happen quickly, he often removes him from the living room and 're enters on his own time...can take 30 minute or 2 hours If you don't trust your dog I'd use a muzzle just in case but it depends how well you know your dog
Your Dad might remind him of someone who has caused him to have a bad experience in the past. He might smell or look like that person. Your Dad probably hasn't done anything 'wrong'. Your Dad should avoid looking at your dog, letting all approaches be on the dog's terms. If you can get your Dad to casually drop food treats (or slowly and gently toss or roll them near your dog) that'd be good too. If he can crouch down or sit while doing this that's even better. Your Dad should try to behave in a relaxed, happy and calm way around your dog (but never staring at your dog or attempting to touch). It will take time..... Hopefully your dog will be brave enough to eventually have a sniff of your Dad. Your Dad should just let this happen without reacting, other than to drop food treats. I agree with Tori that a behaviourist would be a good idea, making sure you include your Dad in these consultations. Does your Dad live in the same house as you?
Just a thought - maybe get your dad to sit on the floor, if possible, and see if your lab will approach him or see him as less threatening? And then he can feed treats too.
Above all - don't force anything. Let him approach your father in his own time. Oh - and welcome to the forum!!!
