JRT Getting mean

[BuddysBuddy]

Hi there everyone.... I'm new here and need some help with our family pet. He's a Jack Russel. Approx. 2yrs. old. When we got him from the pound he was great. Very loving, wonderful with the kids, very easy to train, and VERY playful. We have had him for just over a year now. Lately, when he is sitting by himself and someone approches him, he begins to growl very forcefully. If the warning (growl) isn't heeded, he will snap, and attempt to bite. He acts as though he is very angry. But shortly after he is wanting to play, or cuddle. The problem is that he sometimes lays in the middle of the hallway floor. When someone innocently passes by he will snap at them and attempt to bite them as though he was being teased or provoked. Is there something medically wrong? And if so...... What? Any help with this would be great!... Thanks!

John

[originalfatc]

I myself would first check to make sure there is no medical problem, then I would confer with a behavior specialist who can examine your lifestyle and habits and then council you. It's amazing how many times little things we think nothing of will trigger certain behavior.
A specialist will be able to advise and help you work to modify this pattern.
good luck!

[Squawksx3]

Hi John and welcome :)

I agree.. take him to a vet right away to rule out any medical problems. This can be normal behavior for a dog in pain. Good luck and I hope he gets back to his wonderful self soon ;).

[DiegoDog]

I am not sure about the first part. But in the dog world if you pass the alpha dog without permission you can expect a beating. Maybe the JRT thinks its top dog and gets ticked when you don't ask permission to go past him. But yeah check for medical issues first