Sammy is an 18 week old mix breed puppy. He probably has some type of hound in him. His owners contacted me because on occasion and for no apparent reason he has shown aggression towards them. When I initially met Sammy he seemed friendly and submissive, but then after just a few moments of being patted he became tense with dominant body language. As I began asking questions, his family indicated he was previously owned by neglectful people. He was never socialized and was emaciated when they first got him. Sammy’s new owner showered him with food and love thinking this would correct all the misfortune he once had. Instead he became submissive in the areas where his owners took charge and dominant and aggressive in the areas where he was coddled. His nurturing new family gave him too much status by allowing him to sleep on their bed, eat anything he wanted and when, and stroking him to calm him down. This made Sammy confused, leaving him to believe he had to make some of the decisions and rules. Sammy just needs to learn boundaries. His owners have now began making him work for everything he enjoys, providing him much more exercise and giving him a two minute time out if he exhibits aggressive behavior. I am happy to say that after just four days Sammy’s behavior has dramatically improved. Sammy’s first life experiences and possibly his genetics, made him vulnerable. Many puppies would never exhibit such strong behavior towards their owners who made similar errors. Luckily he has found an adult home who have the competence, time and desire to do the very best for him. Next week Sammy will begin learning some obedience commands and I can tell his owners are excited for more material!