How to Stop a Labrador Retriever Growling Aggressively

Amongst dogs in general and Labrador retrievers in particular, growling is a form of communicating unpleasant feelings to both man and animal.  In many ways, it is an aggressive-assertive behavior that communicates the dog’s feelings of being threatened by the presence of either a known or an unknown entity.

It may be that an unknown intruder is about to burglarize the house.  It may be that the children in the household are interrupting the dog’s meal.  It may be that the master of the house is not giving the Labrador the right degree of respect as befits a member of the pack.  So, why is it important to know the main reasons for Labrador retrievers growling?  Well, simply because once you know the root cause of the problem, you will be able to take the right kinds of action.

Below are few of the surefire ways that you can stop a Labrador retriever from showing aggressive behavior by growling in specific circumstances.  Keep in mind that you do not want your Labrador to completely stop growling as unwanted intruders may be lurking around the house.  Instead, you want to stop the aggressive behavior especially around the elderly and children.  Otherwise, it can be harmful to all concerned – on the humans because of the possibility of a dog attack and the Labrador because of the consequences.

Ways to Stop the Aggressive Behavior

First, you must never punish a dog for his growling behavior.  It is akin to punishing him for normal behavior that may even save your life, which is true in the case of an unwanted intruder entering your home.  Plus, there is the high possibility that your Labrador will attack without warning in the future sans the growling.  Instead, just back off and let him be since he may just want to be left alone.

Second, you should have the veterinarian rule out any medical problem that may cause the Labrador from growling even when no apparent threat is present.  Your dog may be tested for allergies, hormonal imbalances and other illnesses that can lead to unexplained aggressiveness.  If everything is alright on the physical health front, then it is time to consider other ways to stop the Labrador from aggressive growling.

Third, your other members of the family must be instructed on the best way to calm a growling Labrador.  For example, children must be taught that when the Lab is eating, they must not disturb the dog.  Or they should stop whatever it is that they were doing and then slowly move away from the Lab.  Many pet owners will also stay by their dog whenever he is eating just so others can be warned not to disturb.

Fourth, always talk to your Lab in a calm, soft but firm voice while being on an eye level with him.  Often, your large size and too-strong voice threatens him and, thus, leads to his aggressive growling.  Just squat to his eye level, give reassuring words and offer a palm-facing-up hand.  Of course, you should never do this with an unfamiliar dog for obvious reasons.

These are all home remedies, but for more effective solutions, formal obedience training is necessary.  It will take just a short time but the effects are definitely long-lasting.