Mack is showing signs of aggression....

[IRescue452]

This isn't a sign of an aggressive dog, its the dog clearly taking dominance over you. You should start NILIF training and make sure you assert your dominance over him at all times. You should be the one to feed him and do all the dog chores. If he is on the bed it should be by your invite only, and you should periodically tell him to get off just to show you are in control. Same as in furniture, tell him in no uncertain terms when you want him to get off, and sometimes just as a reminder even if you aren't planning to sit there. If he is in your way in the house you should also be able to just nudge him out of your way without fear of his biting, you should never go around him or accomodate him in the way. This all may sound like bullying, but really its just you taking an active role in being dominant.

[VTJess03]

This all may sound like bullying, but really its just you taking an active role in being dominant.

Yes, that's exactly what it is, LOL. That's what dogs understand. The leader of the pack will 'bully' the other dogs into acceptable behavior. We sugarcoat it with other language, but especially for a dog that seems to have a very 'alpha' personality, like this one, it's going to take some firm, maybe aggressive corrections (not abusive!) to get his attention and show him who's boss.

Whenever you start with obedience, NILIF, etc. just remember that you're the boss, and don't let him bully you into being a softy (or make you feel guilty for making him do something - he knows how to use the big puppy eyes only too well); it'll be better for you in the long run and give you a long, happy life with that beautiful dog.

[MacsMommy]

Thank you so much for all your advice, it all makes sense.
I have tryed some of this already, but I can see where he is trying to be the alpha of our pack. We will all work hard to help him understand where his place is in this pack.


Thanks again !

[Karen]

Yup - he's now in his "terrible teens," and now is the time to reinforce every bit of training, every day, and reestablish that you - not he - is leader of the pack. It's completely normal, but serious in a big dog, so be diligent!