I’ve had my 3-year-old Rottie since she was a puppy, but recently she’s started growling and snapping at me whenever I pet her. This behavior started a few days ago, and it doesn’t seem to matter where I pet her now; she does it all the time. She still lets my husband pet her, but she doesn’t act this way with my daughter either. The weird part is that she comes to me and acts like she wants affection, then starts growling when I pet her. I hate ignoring her, but I’m not sure what else to do. She’s acting normal otherwise, following me around and laying at my feet. Does anyone know why she might be doing this now?
It’s a good idea to take her to the vet and explain what’s happening. They should be able to check her over and figure out if it’s a health issue or something behavioral.
Nathan said:
It’s a good idea to take her to the vet and explain what’s happening. They should be able to check her over and figure out if it’s a health issue or something behavioral.
I’ll do that, thanks.
Nathan said:
It’s a good idea to take her to the vet and explain what’s happening. They should be able to check her over and figure out if it’s a health issue or something behavioral.
I agree with this, something might be going on that you can’t see. It could be health-related.
This could be a sign of pain. Maybe she’s trying to let you know something hurts. Get her to the vet as soon as possible.
I had a similar experience in the past. I’d recommend getting a vet appointment and also asking for a urinalysis. It’s been common in my experience that urinary problems can lead to unexpected aggression in dogs.
Smart said:
@CoachKate
Thank you so much for the advice.
I’ve seen this happen before with a GSD mix. She was fine with me, but once my friend went to pet her, she growled. Turned out to be a UTI after a vet check.
Have you tried letting her just lie there without touching her? Also, do you and your daughter use scented products or have long nails? These can sometimes cause sensitivity in dogs.
Jane said:
Have you tried letting her just lie there without touching her? Also, do you and your daughter use scented products or have long nails? These can sometimes cause sensitivity in dogs.
I’ve been leaving her alone for now, and there haven’t been any issues. I have nails, but my daughter doesn’t, and we don’t really use scents.
I had a similar situation with my Saint Bernard. It turned out to be a food allergy. I switched her food, and the behavior stopped after a while.
She could be in pain. Rotties are pretty vocal when they’re uncomfortable. She’s not just snapping, she’s trying to communicate. Get her to a vet quickly.
It seems like she’s in discomfort. I’d get her checked out right away. You don’t want something more serious to happen that could’ve been prevented.
It might be related to maturity aggression. If it’s not a medical issue, just be careful and keep an eye on her.
I agree with everyone else. Get her to the vet to rule out health problems. Also, Rotties can change when they reach maturity. At 3 years old, she’s entering adulthood, and that might affect her behavior. If it’s not medical, she may be testing boundaries with you and your daughter. It could help to work with a trainer to establish clear rules. Rotties are independent, and she might feel she can get away with things with you guys. It’s all about setting those boundaries and staying consistent.
@Vincent
Growling is a way dogs communicate. It’s not bad behavior, it’s just a sign that they’re uncomfortable or trying to get their point across.
Jane said:
@Vincent
Growling is a way dogs communicate. It’s not bad behavior, it’s just a sign that they’re uncomfortable or trying to get their point across.
True, but if the dog starts growling and gets rewarded for it (like getting space or being left alone), the behavior could get worse. That’s why training and boundaries are important. A dog can’t always get what they want through growling or snapping.
@Vincent
I’m not saying ignore training. But punishing growling makes things worse. Growling is part of their natural communication. If she growls and you keep petting her, it’s on you if she bites.
Jane said:
@Vincent
I’m not saying ignore training. But punishing growling makes things worse. Growling is part of their natural communication. If she growls and you keep petting her, it’s on you if she bites.
I’m not advocating punishing her. But if you ignore clear signs of discomfort like growling, it might lead to worse behavior. It’s better to get help early before the dog starts to show more serious aggression.