Q&A

My dog is overprotective of me. How can it be resolved?

July 30, 2018

A dog being held by their owner looking directly at each other

Q&A

My dog is overprotective of me. How can it be resolved?

July 30, 2018

Original Question: I got my dog Raja 1.5 years ago when he was 3 years old when his owner passed away. Raja became very loyal to me shortly after I got him. If someone enters the room that I am in, he charges at them, barks and may try to bite. He will do this to my family members whom he is normally positive with. - Pat

Answered by Dr. Ryan Llera

Hi Pat,

This behavioral problem, unfortunately, can be difficult to deal with. He sounds like he is being protective of you or the territory. You will need to work at this diligently with lots of positive conditioning. He needs to get rewarded when he behaves well. You may try keeping him on a leash and letting people approach you and then reward him when he is calm. I would suggest discussing further with your veterinarian as some medications to help with anxiety or behaviour modification might be beneficial.

Best of luck.

Dr. Ryan Llera

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