Re: growling and strange noises

In Reply to: growling and strange noises
Category:   Behavior Problems
Posted by:  Gaynell
Posted on:  February 25, 2003 at 21:22:35

: My 1 yr old jack russell is very sweet. I have become the primary caregiver for him and he is very possesive of me. He does not like me giving any attention to my other dog...a bassett hound. Even though I know he is very loyal and loves me very much, every time I try to hold him or show him any affection, he will make growl-like sounds and it almost sound as if he is trying to talk through growling. He has never snapped at me but does not like to be held. Sometimes he growls even when I pat him. I know he is healthy, he just started this about 6 months ago. Very strange behavior.

Response:

Hi Gaynell,

He might just be one of those dogs that don't like to be held or he might have something wrong with him. I would take him to your vet to have him checked out just to be on the safe side.

Many times a growl (in this situation) can be a dog's way of telling you he's hurting. He might look healthy, and act healthy and eat healthy but lots of animals will mask illness. This comes from their wild days when sick and injured animals were preyed upon by predators and by pack members.

If he checks out fine, then he just might be one of those that don't like to cuddle.

You should also look at the pack order in your house. Is your terrier dominant over the basset? If so then you need to change the pecking order and make sure your terrier is getting his food first, petted first, treats first, etc.

Get him checked out and if he gets a clean bill of health you can start to work on the emotional things this might be about.