Have I finally become 'Top Dog'?
Discussion
Since getting Chester (Basset cross, now 3 years and 3 months old) back six months ago and him finally being 'my' dog (instead of my wifes)I've asked a few times on here for advice regarding him - he was an awkward, disobediant little sod who did his own thing and wouldn't come back.
That got sorted quickly when he got thumped by a big dog and 'Daddy' stepped in and protected him - he seemed to approve. Now a '95%' perfect mutt which is good enough for me - he'll still get sidetracked by his nose if something really interesting catches his nostrils but he still comes back... eventually.
We had a bit of a run in a few weeks ago when he growled at me and snapped when I asked him to come indoors when he was enjoying the sunshine... he didn't like the result of his actions that day one little bit!
Anyway, last night I had to roll him over as he needed some cream on his sore bits under his armpits and he grumbled (he always grumbles, he's very 'vocal' at all times) but then he snapped at me... sort of. He actually wrapped his mouth round my hand, but there was no teeth and a look of sheer terror in his eyes when he realised what he was doing. Sum of the damage to me was a wet hand from the slobber, and a very tranquil dog who seemed to be expecting dire retribution from his actions. He didn't get it! What he did get was a kiss on the nose and cream rubbed into his armpits without the usual struggle.
Did I do right to not tell him off?
That got sorted quickly when he got thumped by a big dog and 'Daddy' stepped in and protected him - he seemed to approve. Now a '95%' perfect mutt which is good enough for me - he'll still get sidetracked by his nose if something really interesting catches his nostrils but he still comes back... eventually.
We had a bit of a run in a few weeks ago when he growled at me and snapped when I asked him to come indoors when he was enjoying the sunshine... he didn't like the result of his actions that day one little bit!
Anyway, last night I had to roll him over as he needed some cream on his sore bits under his armpits and he grumbled (he always grumbles, he's very 'vocal' at all times) but then he snapped at me... sort of. He actually wrapped his mouth round my hand, but there was no teeth and a look of sheer terror in his eyes when he realised what he was doing. Sum of the damage to me was a wet hand from the slobber, and a very tranquil dog who seemed to be expecting dire retribution from his actions. He didn't get it! What he did get was a kiss on the nose and cream rubbed into his armpits without the usual struggle.
Did I do right to not tell him off?
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