Why does my dog hate adults???

Question

I have a 1yr old chihuahua mix she loves kids but she hates adults. She barks and growls like crazy she doesnt bite but it still makes people uncomfortable. When people come over and they stay for a while she gives it a rest after about 10mins but its still really annoying what can I do to make her a little more friendly??

Answer 1

it all goes back to socialization and leadership.  Let me guess - your dog is free fed???

Answer 2

maybe from bad experiences from them.  hide her in a room when theres company

Answer 3

It may be because adults are large and appear threatening to her. Here are some things to try:

1. Get the people to ignore her - no talk, no touch, no eye-contact.

2. Give them some yummy food to toss to her, while still ignoring her.

3. Ask them to crouch down while still ignoring her. This makes them seem smaller and less threatening.

4. Let her come up on her own to smell them if she wants, but they should still ignore her.

5. Once she is more calm and comfortable with people, they can pet her, but not from above. Dog's view that as a threatening gesture. Always pet a dog on the chest, and reach from below her head.

Answer 4

You could have adults walk by u and your dog and have them throw out a piece of chicken as they walk by and after a lot or practice with that she should be a lot better with adults.