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My mom's 11 year old Coccer Spaniel is extremely protective over my two month old daughter. Whenever I come to visit, he follows whoever is holding her around which isn't a problem, but when my daughter cries he becomes vicious and begins to snap at whoever approaches to pick her up. I know I should be happy to have a protective dog, but what can I do to keep my family members safe from biting when I visit?

Optional Information:
Age: 11; Male; Breed: Coccer Spaniel Dog

Already Tried:
getting to the baby before he does!

Submitted: 1356 days and 18 hours ago.

Category: Dog

Value: $10

Status: AWAITING CUSTOMER ACTION

Answer

This may not exactly be protectiveness it could be he sees the baby as a prey animal and the cries of distress a sign its an easily gotten one.
I suggest seeing if a local trainer will work with you on this. www.apdt.com may help you find one.
You can also pick up the book ChildProofing Your Dog by Kilcommons and Wilson and read that thoroughly.
Do not leave the baby alone with the dog until you know for sure what its real view on the baby is and that you can for sure command him to do what you want and move away from the baby etc.
Hope this helps you!

Expert:	NancyH
Pos. Feedback:	99.5 %
Accepts:	19876
Answered:	2/20/2006

Dog Expert:Rescue, Train,Breed,Care

30+ yrs dog home vet care & nursing, rescue, behavior&training, responsible show breeding, genetics

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