To actually want to stop your Doberman growling issues is not a realistic goal to make for yourself. That would be like asking your protective dog to not follow his instincts and check on you anymore when you are sleeping at night. It is a trait that is often justified. However, for those times that your dog is growling at irrelevant things or for exceptionally long times, this should be controlled.
Who’s in Charge?
If you are not the alpha leader, you will find that you will have a lot more issues with Doberman growling than you really should. A Doberman with a strong leader will feel more at ease in his surroundings because this is ultimately his master’s home which gives me the opportunity to be protective yet relaxed as well. If your dog knows his place, he will listen to you when you command him to stop, so the growling will never become more than a gentle warning.
Socialization
Excessive Doberman growling is one of the most common signs of a poorly socialized dog. A Doberman that is a good protector will be confident and alert yet comfortable around new people and in new environments. A well-socialized dog does not see everything as a threat and has no reason to growl excessively. Some people feel that socializing their Doberman will diminish their dog’s protective qualities however, this is entirely false. A well-socialized dog will protect you without being overly aggressive and dangerous to non-threatening people and animals. He will be alert but will look to you for commands of how he should pursue whatever has caught his attention.
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Physical Illness
Your Doberman growling issues are not necessarily due to aggression. Your dog is unable to express how he feels if he has an injury or an illness so growling is a common communication choice along with whining and barking. If your dog is growling and you can’t determine any triggering factors, it is important that you take him to the veterinarian for a routine checkup.
Too Much Attention
While your Doberman is a protector for you and your family, he may not necessarily appreciate young children tugging at him all the time. Some families have no issues with their Doberman growling at their children, other people say that it is definitely not a good idea to bring this breed into a family environment. Either way, children should be taught to not stick their hands in the food bowl and never try to take a treat or toy away from the dog. You may be in charge of your dog and he may not dream of growling at you for taking his bone away but children may not receive the same respect.
Threats
There are many times that you will find that your Doberman growling is completely justified. He may perceive a person or another animal as a threat to his pack or his power. In this case, respect your pet and his actions. If the triggering element is not a threat, give your dog the “Leave it!” command and if need be, remove him from the area.
Since Dobermans have a strong pack mentality, there may come a time that the growling that is coming from your Doberman is directed toward you. When this happens you need to keep your distance and give your dog his space but you should remain the leader. Squatting down to his level and talking to him gently yet firmly may be helpful. When you feel that your dog is ready, offer him your hand with your palm facing upward. This instills that you are the alpha but you are no threat to your dog.
This is a guest post David the admin of heartuback.com . He is the dogfoodadvisor of doggatesguide.com