So I am a college student, I live in a four bedroom apartment with 3 roommates. I have a one year old lab I rescued at 5 months old. He loves people and attention as do most other labs. He seemed happy with everyone when we moved in this school year, but ever since I got back from Christmas break he has been more reactive especially to one of my roommates. When she walks through the door he will run up to her, continuously bark, growl at her and his hair will stand up. I am very confused as to why this is happening. She is not at the apartment much and is not aloud in her room so I am not sure what made him act scared or aggressive to her.
Hi Madison, Welcome to the forum! I'm sorry to hear that you are having problems with your Lab. There are lots of possible reasons that a previously happy dog can become reactive. One of them is that they are unwell, so it's worth going to the vet for a check up to rule that out. I'd also highly recommend booking a session with a qualified canine behaviorist, one that exclusively uses positive reinforcement techniques. Your local vet should have contact details for someone in your area. Do let us know how you get along!
Does this roomate look or dress differently than most of the people your dog is around? Our first Lab was very wary of my cabin partner, we think because of his beard and deep voice. Cooper barks at skateboarders, and by extension anyone who looks like a boarder, even without their board. No idea why.
