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Why does my 2 yr old westie get grumpier and grumpyier?

My 2 yr old westie is a quiet dog but has a 10 month ols sister who is abit hypo. I’ve noticed my older dog buddy is just turning into a grumpy old man. Like when he is asleep on the sofa if I brush my feet on him or tell him to get dwn or pick hi up he growls at me. Not nasty but more of a moan! When I put him in the garden 1st thing I have to push him out the door and he maons at me again! How can I stop this? Is this behavour because of something?

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Answer #1

Well, then he’s protesting…and growling isn’t allowed. Westies are funny. When my mother would move foot in bed, and it would brush up against Molly, she’d growl…however, Molly never had the nerve to growl at me for anything. That’s why I think doing some obedience with him would be good…reinstate that YOU are the leader, not him.

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Answer #2

hes not in pain.. if I tell him to get off the sofa he wont so I put my fingers in his collar to move him ahnd he growls at me. that sort of thing

Answer #3

If he’s “moaning”, he might be in pain…if he’s growling, he’s telling you he doesn’t want to do what you’re asking of him (protest). Protesting will escalate, so nipping this in the bud is essential. I don’t think this has anything to do with the pup…it has to do with the relationship between YOU and him.

If this was happening to me with my dog, we’d go right back into obedience training…I ask for sit, I get a sit…if I ask for down…he gives me the down…just the basics, to remind him that it is YOU who makes the decisions and who runs the pack. Westies are a Terrier, and Terriers are tough, dominant little dogs. Fair…firm…leadership. Why not check around and see if there’s a group obedience class happening close…get him out socializing, and letting a trained person give you some tips on working with him.

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Answer #4

lol I have a scottie um hes gettingolder he may be in pain or somthing you could read a few books or ask a like vet

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