[Brooklyn_mf]

I have a three year old border collie/ pitbull cross that has a growling problem. He growls whenever someone walks in a door, including me. Normally he stops growling right away once he realizes who it is but other times he continues growling for minutes after, it is starting to cause issues between my step dad and I and he has to be licked up when people come over because they are scared of him. He is the gentlest dog ever, and I trust that he would never do anything to anybody. He LOVES kids, it's just when someone comes through a door. I'm really struggling with this behavior and I've tried multiple different techniques and I've also worked with a trainer. Any recommendations?

 

[petpeeve]

I'm really struggling with this behavior and I've tried multiple different techniques and I've also worked with a trainer. Any recommendations?

It might help us if you give more details of what techniques you've tried, what has worked, what hasn't worked etc.

Growling typically signifies discomfort with something physical (a basic health check / eye check by your vet might be in order here) or fear based / environmental.

Generally though, I'd probably recommend consulting with a behaviourist rather than a trainer.

 

[3GSD4IPO]

Growling should always be construed as a warning. Do not EVER trust a dog that is growling. If pressed, a growling dog will bite. Do not punish the growling. Change the conversation.. divert the dog.

This is a mixed genetic bag. IF truly that is the mix (and shelters and the DNA tests usually have it wrong) you have a genetic mess temperamentally. Hard wiring counts because it is NOT all in "how you raise them."

Taking what you have said on strictly face value this sounds like a defensive dog that lacks confidence and it warning people off. Remember this if you are going to have guests. Keep everyone safe and crate the dog when people come over and (especially) when there are children around (different energy).