When bringing a new dog home, it is inevitable that there will be a few bumps and hiccups as you and your dog begin adjusting to your new lives together. Sometimes, a new owner encounters something unusual and may be unsure if it can be dealt with at home or if it requires professional help. You are always welcome to contact the East Bay SPCA training line for any questions you may have, but below are a list of behaviors that should be resolved with the assistance of a trainer, rather than on your own. If you encounter any of these behaviors or situations, please contact one of our training lines immediately. You can find our training line numbers at the beginning of this packet.

Freezing, Growling, or Snapping Over Food or an Object: If you walk by your dog or if you sit down to pet your dog while he’s chewing on a treat and notice any of these signs, please contact us right away.

Freezing, Growling, or Snapping When You Ask Your Dog to Do Something He Doesn’t Want to Do, or When You Try and Stop Him From Doing Something He Does Want to Do: Examples might be a growl when you try to make your dog get down off the couch or when you hold him back from going outside.

Showing Fear Towards a Family Member: Fear can manifest in many ways. Some dogs will cower and cringe away while others may growl or snarl.

Showing Fear Towards Strangers: Some dogs are simply aloof with new people, which is fine. But if your dog seems afraid of new people, contact a trainer.

Barking at People and/or Other Dogs On Leash: This is an issue that can become worse the longer it’s left unaddressed.

Extreme Distress When You Leave the House: If you come home to find your room in shambles and your dog panting and covered in her own drool, contact us as soon as you can.

Repeated Growling or Fighting with Other Resident Dog(s): While it can take some time for a new dog to settle in with other dogs, if you repeatedly see your dogs growling at one another, or if they have even a single minor fight, keep the new dog separate and contact us.