Growing & Barking at strangers

Hello All

We have recently had a 2year old staffy (which is my brothers) move into the family home with us! His name is Gonzo and he is 2! Most loveliest dog ever - so sweet an loving with us however since moving in with us he has started to growl and bark at strangers whenever they come to the house it's getting quite scary now as we don't want to invite people round! He was castrated about 4 months ago too! I'm not sure if it's because he has moved house but desperately need some advice!

Such a shame not to show him off because he is amazing!!

Any advice would be great

Thanks

Hi &

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It could be that he's still 'settling in'. For a while, I'd put him on a lead when people come in & tell them to ignore him. Give them some treats to hold & let them sit down & make Gonzo sit quietly with you for a while. Once he's calm, allow him to go a bit nearer (still on lead so you have control). If he's happy to go to them quietly, then let them offer him a treat, but tell them not to fuss or touch him. Once he's happier with them being there you can let them stroke him calmly & quietly.

P.S. Welcome to the forum!!

Thanks yeah I've been reading the forum for a while thought was time to join!! He's a little beaut but can be scary at times especially in the stranger situation!! He's been with us for over 5 months I'd say now but my brother said he was never like this before it's happened all of a sudden he's been to vets so no underlying health probs :-)

It can take an adult dog quite a few months to fully settle into a new home. With patience & consistency, though, I'm sure he'll be ok.