Boxer bite

[McKay's Mom]

As I write my SO is in the hospital after having hand surgery, d/t our own boxer biting him. The dog was diagnosed one year ago with a brain tumor- but was/is in a remarkable remission. In the past ten days he has become SUPER protective toward me...if he interprets the slightest move by my SO he attacks! Previously- they were best buddies. My SO is a gentle non-threatening person, he and the dof love each other. This is so upsetting and we sure cannot take any chances. I love my dog and want to do almost anything to prevent euthanising. Looking for feedback...suggestions. Already bought a muzzle, does not fit...made for "snouted" dogs! Am going to ck with vet about sedatives etc... Looking forward to feedback...

 

[Tulsa-Dan]

Check with your vet first. Secondly, get in touch with a qualified canine behaviorist to assist you in helping your dog through this difficult and confusing time in his life. Remission or not, the brain tumor has affected your dog's behavior and thinking. Some may be "fixable" and some may need management but, you need a professional to help you assess the situation and give you a qualified, professional opinion - along with your veterinarian - on what can and cannot be done with this issue.

That would be my first response, even before even considering euthanization (which I never would no matter what, but that's me). I have no doubt your SO is all that you say and loves the dog very much and is a gentle loving person. But, he may be doing things which the dog is interpreting as threatening, and he doesn't even know it. A behaviorist can help assess YOUR actions and behaviors around the dog (which is under great stress right now) and help you to help the dog in that way as well. We can't tell what the dog is perceiving at this point and, it is ALL about the dog's perception. That needs some professional assessment from someone who can observe the dog and make these sorts of judgments in ways that will benefit the dog, are safe for the dog and for you and your family.

Best of luck.

 

[McKay's Mom]

Thank you for your advice. We WILL find a behavior specialist... I really want to help him and keep him safe, happy and healthy. As a boxer lover- you know the love they bring us and I couldn't bear to lose him...Thank you for your time