Quote Originally Posted by borzoimom
We were told when we got Femka, that if suddenly startled and felt cornered- she might snap. I have only seen the behavior once- and that was in the first week.. She was asleep near a closet, with her back against the wall. My dogs use to closets, and me not thinking- I said something, then opened the door which opened outwards- putting her between the door and the wall. I guess in her mind- she felt trapped and snapped at me.. ( looked more of a snap to me..but didnt make contact- but her teeth sure went click..).. That was two years ago- .. I am not sure if its that she has settled now- as she is obviously happier- a totally different dog with a 180 degree change- but I will say this-
The fact they told me that could happen- instead of me freaking out that she " turned on me" - I understood what position I had put her in.. For months afterwards- I watched for things like that- and now two years later- I doubt she would.. But we know its there.. She is also MUCH MORE CONFIDENT and actually quite silly.. I am glad they told me this could happen. She already acted terrified the first few weeks..
(** importantant note- if we had small children or many people in the house other than us too, this situation might have had more gravity to us than " Oh you idiot Michelle- that was a stupid move!! Poor Femka..".. **)
Rocky was the same way, I was not informed however, and was very shocked about his behavior. He felt cornered as well, and snapped at me, he thankfully only left slobber on my arm, but it was quite a shock, but it made perfect sense later. Rocky has not done this since that day, and I am very acreful about putting him in that situation again.
It is best if all parties are told of behavior like this, so certain things can be avoided!