Dog turns wild when bell rings, help!!!

[FarraJaca]

Our 2 yr old male is very mild sometimes to the point of really shy. A total transformation happens when he sees any person near the driveway or the door bell rings. If we move him out of the way to open the door he snarls, snaps and bites at us! He has never hurt us until today when he caught me hand which received a pretty hard ugly bite. He does respond when we yell at him to calm down or move out of the way but we don't want to have to yell at him everytime someone comes to the door, which makes us look like nuts. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to control him? Help please...

 

[mancin]

It appears that he thinks he's protecting you, and he's snapping and snarling at you because in his eyes, you are challenging his "protective" alpha position. I think you have to start w/ training him that you are the alpha in the household and he is not responsible for protecting you. I recommend that you read "The Culture Clash" and "The Dog Listener" where it outlines how to do this. You don't want to yell at him... just speak to him in a strong, reassuring voice, but don't raise your voice.
After he's been stripped of his "power", maybe start putting him into a sit position before you answer the door?

 

[champ612]

I've been going through the same thing with our boxer, Champ. He was two this past June. I've learned not to touch him when he's in that kind of mood - barking, raised hackles. Rather, I try to re-direct him away from the door with some kind of food as well as "let's go". He's very food motivated. I am however, bringing a private trainer back this week to get her opinion if what I am doing in the situation is correct. I have also re-started subtle techniques such as me going through doorways first. Having him sit before his leash goes on or comes off. Inviting him up to sit with me on the couch, etc. Champ also has some issues with horns (especially UPS), boom boxes and diesel engines (trucks, school buses, etc.) So, I'm hoping my trainer will be able to address these issues and give me some help.
Good luck!

Jackie & Champ

 

[FarraJaca]

Well it's good to know that Caesar isn't all that unusual. We have even resorted to getting our take out food delivered to us in the garage. He also hates the UPS, Fed-Ex, Mail man any sort of delivery person and their trucks, oh! and horns really set off barking too. It concerns me that once we have children (hopefully next year) and the child goes to the door with the dog he is going to really do some damage! This cannot be allowed and needs to be corrected now. I am also going to see what the trainer has to say and how we can retrain him. I will let you know what I find out, please do the same!
Good luck to you too!