Why Buddy growled?

[BuddysMom]

Here's what happened, I'll give my theory as to why but I wonder if y'all agree or have any other ideas.

First off John (husband) has fallen totally in love with Buddy and the feeling is mutual. They snuggle on the couch together, etc. etc. and also They think it's big fun to roll around on the floor or grass together.

Last night when we Buddy and I had settled into bed John got down and started nuzzling Buddy, and Buddy growled at John. No snapping or biting, just enough to make him back off. John said it was the second time, and he knows he shouldn't be "playing dog" with Bud so much ...

I asked was he nuzzling Buddy's belly area and he said yes, that's what he was doing each time it happened. My theory is that Buddy has an instinctive aversion to someone's head approching his belly because that's one of the vulnerable spots (besides the jugular) where one animal will tear in to kill another animal in the wild.

Any thoughts, agreements, disagreements?

[imported_Kat]

It sounds like Buddy was giving him a warning. He obviously feels tense and vulnerable with his belly area so your husband would be wise to respect this and to not push Buddy's personal boundary.

[imported_Matty]

One of my pooches will growl at if some one pats him on top of the head. The chest and stomach area he loves and thrives on. Some dogs just don't like some areas touched. I would almost say that the dog looks at your husband as a playmate and when the playmate gets out of line he lets him know. Basically showing his dominance to your hubby and letting him know what is off limits.
I find most dogs love to have their belly area rubbed, by any one and every one :D they don't feel the need to protect the area by a fellow pack member as a well balanced pack is not going to hurt or harm another pack member.
I would start having your hubby use the NIFIL policy to show buddy that he is higher in the pack status. If they dog has a problem with his belly being rubbed then perhaps he doesnt like it, or maybe he has a problem and a vet visit is in order. Also have your husband practice some obedience with him.
Plus another thing is the whole getting into bed, you are there and so is buddy. Buddy may be sutely saying that he does not appreciate a lower member in bed with him and his leader (you).

[BuddysMom]

Thanks all!

I should mention he's not in the bed with me, but on his own bed which is on the floor right next to "my side".

Also Buddy oooooves to have his belly rubbed and scratched. It seems to be related just to the face coming near the belly.

I agree with the thought that Buddy sees John as a playmate and is just setting boundaries.

[courtnek]

face near the belly bothers him obviously. He might think he's going to get bitten. But he needs to learn that hubby wont hurt him and to obey.

Free doesnt like her head top petted, and while she shrinks away she allows it because she has to. Hubby needs to do someobedience training
with Buddy.

:)