Dear Bif, We have adopted a lab mix from a shelter a year ago. Jack was about a year old and has a confusing past so we're not really sure about how he was treated. He is very mouthy although improved greatly it can still be a nuisance when we have guests. He also will help himself to the kids' toys( ages 4 and 7) right out of their toy box! Sometimes he will let me get them out of his mouth other times he really wants to keep them.He does growl then and sometimes I'm not really sure I want to be doing this but, I can't let him "win". Keeping the doors shut can be my only answer but as kids are kids, they forget and I'd really like Jack to stop this. Can you give me some pointers? Thanks - Jacks Mom

Hello Jack's Mom. Jack, like most labs, wants attention. He wants to play with the guest and with the kids. You have to encourage him to play with his toys and discourage him from the kids toys. You do not want to let him "win" but if you are afraid of being bit then he is already in charge! A dime store water pistol may help when he has a toy he should not have. Tell him to "give it" or "drop it". If he growls or won't give it up, squirt him right in the kisser. Then grab it when he moves. If he gets aggressive or still won't give in then some training classes are needed to reinforce who's boss. Usually, after a few tries the hand concealed water pistol works best, so he never knows when you have it. No overdoing it, that will just make him untrustworthy of you and never ever let the kids get there hands on it! You will see very quickly if this will work. Some labs love water even sprayed at them, in that case use his yummy's. Teach him to drop it and he gets a treat. A Spring shut toy box will help lots!

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