Just like their Beagle and English Bulldog ancestors, Beabull puppies are normally affectionate, loyal and playful. However, there can always be a bad apple in any bunch. If your Beabull puppy is showing signs of aggression, here are some tips to nip that in the bud before he gets too old or it becomes dangerous for your family.
1. Growling, snarling and snapping are all signs of aggression. If your Beabull puppy is showing these or other signs to you and/or the rest of the family, you all need to prove yourselves as the alpha. Most dogs show aggression to prove their dominance over you or the other members of the family. Your puppy needs to know that he relies on you and the family for his food, toys, play, etc – not the other way around. In a pack, the alpha dog is rarely challenged. You need to put that same respect into place.
2. Some puppies can start to show signs of aggression over their food, toys, bones and treats as well. When your puppy growls or shows other signs of aggression over his food, try putting him on a schedule, if he isn’t already. When you’re preparing his food, make him sit or stay in another room where he can jump, whine, push, etc. Once his food is ready, call him to his feeding area and make him sit again while you hold the bowl. Wait until he is still and silent for at least 5 seconds then put the food down for him to eat. This will remind him that you are alpha and in control of this food. He will be less likely to show aggression to you (or other family members) when he knows you are the food source.
3. When your Beabull puppy shows signs of aggression such as growling, do not laugh, smile or simply ignore the behavior. Immediately tell him “no” in a loud, harsh tone so that the message is loud and clear. Laughing or ignoring the behavior will only reinforce it.
