Celyn is settling in wonderfully with us and is a big old softie!

Sadly there is a but...he is so very protective of us (which is gorgeous in the fact he is happy here!), whilst out (on the lead) he really lays into people (verbally) who come near, significantly scaring people, growling hackles raised etc. We are fearful he may bite.Ironically he is better off the lead with people, and there are no problems with dogs.

Has anyone gone through a similar situation? Does anyone have advise? We are now looking at introducing a muzzle whilst out in public, ideally, we would like for this only to be temporary, but not sure how to tackle this.

Hi there, it is really good Celyn has settled in well. My advise (but check it out with Denise) is not a muzzle try a halti. It will make him realize you are in control of the walk & you will have control. I've used one on my girl since she was 10month old & it was almost instant control. He thinks you can't protect yourself ............ the old pack leader thing. Good luck

Hi Matthew. After reading what you put it brings to mind something the AC officer said of when he picked him up from the property. He was tied to the house and did bark when he approached him but when told firmly but nicely it was okay he allowed him to unleash him and happily trotted with him. I am wondering if due to his former owner's 'illness' that he was tied up frequently and associates the lead with the need to 'protect' or 'guard'. Off leash he is off duty so to speak. Definitely institute pack leader rules, show him you can sort out things in his life now and he can go back to being a dog. Do you have "How to be Pack Leader" and "Alpha Boot Camp" that pass out to people.

Some very intersting stuff there Denise, a lot of it sounds obvious when you see it in writing!!!

Also when he is neutered - better give Tim the AC officer pointers on indentifying a neutered dog, Celyn's male ego will go down a few notches.

Yes it is rather obvious when you view things from the 'dog's point of view' isn't it.