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Big dog snaps at small puppy over food/bed. Need female trainer.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bulldog | Female | spayed | 2 years and 11 months old | 75 lbs

I got a Chihuahua puppy named Bear, Nina doesn't seem to mind him she sniffs him and walks away she even plays with him. but, when he gets near her bed or food bowl she snaps and lunges at him. she hasn't bit him but I'm afraid she might how can I fix this? Nina was a rescue and she has shown aggression toward males so a dog trainer might not be the best option as most affordable ones near me are males. I'm afraid Nina can hurt him as he only weighs 2 lbs and she weighs about 70lbs

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Elizabeth

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on December 20, 2017

I would be worried as well with the size difference. This is not a situation that is going to be easy to fix or to convey via a post. I would recommend to find a female trainer as the trainer will teach you to identify the beginning signs of Nina getting upset. The trainer will then teach you how to react to modify Nina's behavior. Otherwise I would recommend to pick up a book about dog behavior and begin to familiarize yourself with dog body language and how to read what they are saying. This will help you to get a better handle on what the dogs are saying. I hope this helps to point you in the right direction!
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