chazey

Thanks to everyone who has posted. There are some really helpful suggestions and advice, and some slightly off topic It is a really difficult situation for us but hopefully one which we can resolve. I hear what you are saying about the owners being at fault, and in some way that MUST be true, however we didn't pick a Mastiff without first doing a lot of research and visiting breeders. We did everything that they recommended including puppy and obedience classes. We did not take the ownership of a large breed dog lightly, and still don't. It doesn’t make this any easier to deal with. I have made contact with a behaviourist who has been recommended on here so fingers crossed she can shed some light on the situation. Thanks again for all your input. FYI: We did try to chat to the breeders and they pretty much told us to get lost

I have been a member on here for a while but usually i just read all the helpful advice, i've never posted on here. I have an English Mastiff, he's just over a year old. Bit of background info: he's a family dog, although he sleeps outside (his preference) He has full run of the yard (he's not contained in a run or anything) and goes for several walks each day. He has been sterilised. He attended puppy school and is generally obedient. He has however started showing signs of aggression. I can't say when i first noticed it, maybe it was always there and now its just worse. I'm not sure. He barks aggressively when people come to the house, or walk past the front of the house at night, if someone comes into his yard, even if they are with a family member he will lunge and bark at them. He lunges at joggers and bikes, and is startled by sudden movement and young children running. He snapped at a young child once through a glass door. He also blocks the doorway (however that could just be he can't be bothered getting up!!). I have racked my brain and just can't seem to find a cause, he's been checked by the Vet for a medical reason. he's never been struck or physically punished. He seems fine with all the family (i have 3 young children and he will happily play with them ) and he's not food aggressive. He also seems to like other dogs . He doesn't usually display any of the behaviours (except the barking at people who come to the house) when my husband takes him out, its only when he's with me. Now I can't let him off the leash in case he attacks someone. What could be causing this? and what do I need to do to stop it. Can i stop it? Where can I go for help before it gets any worse. I live in WA. (He is NEVER left alone with our children, for his protection as much as theirs.)