Moving my outdoor dog indoors. Problems

pic199

My dog, Misty, is an English Setter who is 6 years old. Recently, had her companion die. We don't want to leave her outside alone, so we want to make her an indoor dog. She doesn't have a huge problem with messing in the house, but she has a random aggressive tick. She considers me as her master. She does not snap at me. When my other dogs, Miley (schnoodle) and Bella (yorkie), approach me she will occasionally snap at them. She becomes seriously aggressive, growling and lunging and trying to bite. Most of the time she is fine with them, even playing with them. The biggest issue is she snapped at my girlfriend and brother. They would be petting her and all the a sudden she snaps. She bites to hurt not to be playful. She acts like she is spooked.

My girlfriend was petting Misty, who was laying on the ground between us. Misty had her eyes open and was enjoying the attention. Then my girlfriend shifted to get a better reach to pet her. Misty snapped and bit her breaking skin below her cheek. I got up and Misty instant stopped. I scolded Misty and put her in the garage.

I don't know what to do. I really want to convert her into an indoor dog, but she snaps randomly at least 3 times a day. If i can;t fix it she will end up having to stay outside.

Cali

Take her to the vet. She could be in pain. Once her health is cleared you can address behavioral issues

kmes

Yep! Time for a vet visit! Be sure to ask your vet to test for a thyroid problem (can cause aggressive behavior) as well doing a complete physical on your dog to be sure she isn't suffering from pain.

And be sure to keep her crated or seperated from all house guests! You don't want her to bite again.

Mikey

ALWAYS check with a vet first for behavior problems -especially like this they can often be health problems

I know how a snappy dog or a grouchy dog can be-but if there wasnt blood-I think she is telling them off-not being aggressive


I want her to be an indoor dog too. I don't like dogs being outdoor dogs

She's snapping becuase she's in pain or scared. You cannot correct her for this or punish her for this. If you stubbed your toe hard and swore and someone hit you for swearing-well your toe still hurts right? Don't punish or correct. Find out WHY she is snapping. Dogs don't just act like jerks. There is something wrong. Physically or mentally she's hurting.

Brittany

I agree check with the vet.

Has she always been an outside dog? Did she get a lot of attention when she was out there? From you and others?

pic199

During the summer, Misty and Buddy would spend their nights sleeping in the yard. Could it be that when we touch Misty at night she is reacting like she was outside and afriad another animal is touching her. Like she is protecting herself and afraid of a predator.

I just want to clarify, they had the option of sleeping inside their dog house. We weren't neglecting them. If it rained or was cold, they spent the night in the garage.

Criosphynx

the dog was laying between you two getting attention...She knows you guys are not predators.

I agree with the others she sounds like she is in pain. I would get her to a vet.

Brittany

Any update? Did you take her to the vet?