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Why has my dog suddenly become over protective of me?
I adopted my border collie mix over 2 years ago and we think she's about 3 and a half now. She's always loved people and been very good around them and although she is very friendly toward other dogs she tends to play too rough and not understand when another dog wants her to leave them alone
I've taken her to beginner and intermediate classes as well as to dog parks and many other dog socializing opportunities and while it's still an issue it has been steadily improving.
However, I had to leave for a few weeks to get us set up in our new apartment and since I've come back she's been very over protective of me around other dogs. We were staying at my friend's for a night and we had both lived together with both of our dogs only a year ago but every time I gave the other dog any attention my dog would go at her. They even started fighting. No one was actually hurt but I dot know what to do about this behavior? Could it solve itself once we're settled in our new apartment?
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Member 1088675
on Jan 31st 2012
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in Behavior & Training
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When you left and came back you didn't show yourself as pack leader. She sensed this and she became leader and is protecting you. Whenever you leave a dog and come back you have to re-assert yourself to the dog to show that you are still the leader.
Basically, you can look for signs or possessiveness such as rubbing. laying on, blocking, etc. Whenever you see this make a vocal sound and either move towards the dog or bump them with your body. You should pet the other dog and when your dog moves towards you or the other dog make the vocal sound.
Member 1088045
answered on 2/1/12.
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The first post had a lot of good points. After you move, some of these actions should calm down. When she has you all to herself she may not feel that need to protect you as much. But I would keep up with the socialization and keep on top of this so it does not get out of hand.
Tiara
answered on 2/1/12.
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