Dog growled at little kid

[Kama]

Today my 6 month old cocker spaniel growled at my little nephew. This is the first time it has happened. But, it has me very concerned as a warning growl might be a precursor to something more serious.

My dog was playing with his treat ball and my nephew, who lives with us, tried to pick up the ball. My dog gave out a low growl and my nephew backed off.

This is the first time it has happened in the last 2 months we have had the dog. And he has never growled at any one else. I pick his ball up and take it away numerous times without a problem.

Now, I know NILIF is one way to go. Any other suggestions?

Am i right to be concerned?

 

[opokki]

How old is your nephew? If he is old enough and you feel it is safe, I would also work on object exchanges (begining with low value items) with the dog and include your nephew. It might also be beneficial to instruct your nephew (again, only if he is old enough to follow instructions) to walk past the dog when he has his treat ball or other valued items and drop a few special treats as he passes by.
If good things happen whenever your nephew passes by while the dogs got a high valued item he will be less likely to see your nephew as a threat.
I'm sure others will have more suggestions for you.

 

[kidsanddogs]

Your dog is old enough to start obedience training, and I would start that right away. It will also help with the socialization he needs with people and other dogs.

 

[PFC1]

It's something to worry about, but not panic over. You can find lots of help on this site working through this issue. I would definitely take steps to work on this issue and not ignore it.

 

[RedyreRottweilers]

1) teach or supervise the child never to take objects from ANY dog

2) teach the puppy through supervised desensitation and NILIF that children are kind leader figures, and are to be respected. Teach in kind that childred are to respect and be kind to all dogs.

This was a warning in many ways. It is too bad that 1) the child was allowed to put the puppy in that position, and 2) that the puppy got his desired response when the child backed down.

However, I do feel that with proper positive leadership training for the dog and child that it can be overcome.