Hello all, I am new to this forum and Goldendoodles, but not new to dogs. Our 6 month old is very growly and barky. He has been this way since 9 weeks of age. We exercise a lot, continue to socialize at parks, shopping, etc., follow the NILIF program and, since he had some dominant issues, a little dominance training. His behavior did improve immensly, BUT there was no change in his at home growling and barking at anything/one and/or at phantom noises, etc. He even barks every morning each time a family member descends the stairs for breakfast. He's very defensive till he sees them or hears their voice. Shouldn't he know it's family by now? Our trainer's suggestions didn't work so are there any trainers or owners out there with "tricks"? I know 6-9 months marks the 2nd fear stage, but this is not new and does this mean he thinks he's the protective alpha dog? Thanks in advance to anyone that can help.
