Growling and snarling

Cleared

Can't help I'm afraid. Bacchus has never really challenged me. He's probably just testing boundaries so try not to let him think you are apprehensive.

Alfie is still a puppy, now in "teenage" phase and is trying it on!

If he wants to chew, then give him a chew - but not a foody one! something like a stag bone would be ideal.

Have you read http://staffy-bull-terrier.com/stop_your_staffy_puppy_biting ? This may help you.

And no, I don't think he's getting aggressive! (Unless you show aggression to him). Maybe a bit confused (rolling on the back is usually a sign of submission).

Be firm but calm, read all the relevant tutorials on this site (only one of which I have listed here) and don't panic - he will grow up!

Do keep in touch and let us know how he's getting on.

Thank you !
Had worked myself into a frenzy thinking the reason no one had replied yet was because you all thought he was a dangerous dog.
Will continue with the training and ignore his protests.
He has a stag bar and various other chew toys, he is not that interested in them though, I think he liked the treat aspect of the chew stick really.

Aww Lisa I've only just seen this, no he's not aggressive what your describing is perfectly normal, your gorgeous boy is testing the boundaries keep up your firm no's & time outs and he'll get there, patience & persistence is the key, good luck

Thank you Hayley  

Not at all concerned that the behaviour is aggressive .... just a thought though, could he be trying to get you to 'play'?

Chiquito will often get quite 'naughty' when he is seeking attention (usually when I am otherwise engaged) and behaves in quite a similar way - stealing whatever he can get hold of, jumping up etc and when I try to retrieve what he has stolen or stop the nipping/jumping etc that he is doing he will bark, pounce, growl, play bite or try to encourage me to chase him.

Maybe, he is always particularly naughty at certain times of day, like when i am cooking tea for the children, so it makes sense.

Cant really play with him then though, he does get a lot of fuss and play generally. Maybe its because by tea-time he has worn out our other dog so needs a new playmate?

I will try to play more with him just before i get busy, but presumably with age he will get more self sufficient?

They get up to all sorts when seeking attention. Bacchus will take bits and pieces out of the wastepaper basket, go upstairs and fetch slippers, eat his stag bar on the sitting room mat ( which isn't allowed) etc.