Our three month old neutered black male lab is extremely friendly to everyone, energetic and healthy. He has never bitten anyone and hopefully never will. However, when we wake him or bother him when he is with a favorite toy, he will sometimes growl in a menacing way. His tail is wagging and he is not bearing his teeth. In fact, he will lean into us as he does this, often rolling over on his back in a playful, submissive way while his tail continues to wag. He allows us to take the toy. The growl is annoying but it is not clear how to stop it. Should we be concerned?
I am no expert but a growl is a warning sign so he’s giving you a message. He’s still super young so maybe you need to adapt your behaviour so don’t wake him or bother him when he has a toy. Try and distract him maybe instead if you want him to do something else...throw a treat, offer a different toy. Are you planning to get to any classes, as the trainers will be able to advise. Also 12 weeks is very young to be neutered so that may play a part maybe ? I am guessing you live somewhere where that is the norm. Hopefully others will add their experiences too
Thanks for the reply and I apologize for a significant error in my post. Toby is now 3 years old, not 3 months as I had incorrectly posted. LW
I'm only an expert with my own dogs, but if it is only a growl with a wagging tail, and lying on his back, and no teeth bared, I don't think it is a warning, but just play. Of course I haven't seen your dog.
My 10 months old pup often play growls while playing. It is very different than the real growl and easily recognisable. When I take away his toy when it's time for a break or nap, he sometimes tries to lure me into a game of tug or fetch, and will play growl. He also lays on his back sometimes with the toy clutched in his mouth. Is it possible that that is the case? Can't say anything about the waking thing, though. Never seen that with joy. He just gives us an annoyed glance and huffs a bit if disturbed while asleep.
