Well as some of you know I just got Eddie yesterday.  Well twice now he has snapped at my son.  In all honesty he deserved it and it was my fault lettig him get to rough.  He never growls or acts aggressive even around food but he has snapped these two times.  How do I correct this?  i know I have to watch my son more closely of course and teach him how to be more gentle but I don't want him to accidently get bit in the face (both times the snaps appeared more like a warning than a bite attempt) but I'm afraid he'll get Mikey in the face by accident.   Any help please  I don't want this to escalate as he is such a wonderful dog.  I don't blame him for not liking being bullied by a 2 1/2 year old but he needs to learn that snapping is not acceptable.

..........and the 2-1/2 year old needs to learn acceptable behavior also! I don't mean to sound harsh...but I've seen so much of this type of situation. Please remember that Eddie is in new surroundings... new environment... new people. He's adjusting and trying to make the transition the same as the humans are! Give him some space and some time to settle down. And please... PLEASE..be alert and do not allow your son to get in the dog's face. Most dogs DO growl before they bite. (It's a warning they give most times). If you cannot be around to supervise... then crate the dog to protect both your son and Eddie. They BOTH need your protection. 

I highly suspect that when Eddie becomes more in tune with your lifestyle and his new surroundings, his behavior will improve.  Until then.. please allow him that opportunity. 

Ok, I stated that I need to teach my son acceptable behavior.  I don't expect Eddie to tolerate roughness. I was there both times, my son is never left unsupervised with animals and I am not defending his actions.  He was trying to give Eddie a hug but leaned on him too much which was my fault for not being quick enough.  I am experienced with dogs but  accidents do happen.  I don't mean to get defensive but I don't want it to sound like my son is this spoiled little monster who is allowed to terrorize poor animals.  My question is can this behavior be corrected if it occurs again?  He has shown virtually no aggression at any other time so I don't think it's an aggression issue but don't want it to become one.  My son is now not allowed to touch him without mommy and daddy holding his hand.  I appreciate your advice and am not trying to sound like one of THOSE parents but please believe me when I say that my son is not allowed to pinch, push, pull, sit on, etc any dog.  He has just gotten used to our big dog who wrestles with him, he doesn't quite understand the size difference.  I love Eddie and am willing to do what it tkes to make him comfortable  I have no intention of returning him, I just wanted some advice.  Thank you   I will heed yours and let you know how he does...Don't think I'm a b*&^% I just wanted to clarify the situation a bit

Gwacie,

Thank you!  I din't mean to come across so defensive and understand your point.  I know Nora is trying to help and I didn't put the situation very clearly in my op.  Like I said I don't think he intends to bite or he would have done so.  You basically stated what I tried to say,  Mikey doesn't quite understand gentle. I take his hand and lightly pet Eddie and tell him "gentle".  I hope it sinks in soon.  I am just upset because I'm afraid of something bad happening .  For the most part they interact very well together.  They play ball forever.  It's just when poor Eddie is trying to sleep that Mikey needs to learn to "let a sleeping dog lie "  I will keep you all posted!

Nora,

You are right!  I had to be reminded that you don't know my situation and I didn't really explain it very clearly I just am concerned for both of their well being. I don't want either of them in a bad situation.  I think i expected too much this early on but I will be more patient and really watch my son.  Eddie is very gentle and doesn't deserve to be frightened.  I think eventually he will be less startled by quick movements and noise level.  he seems to have adjusted quite well already.  Mikey will not be able to interact with Eddie at all without our permission.. Thanks so much for your help and I will keep you posted!

NORA IS CORRECT.  I would not let your little boy hugging him yet.  Just petting him and giving him treats.  Some dogs just dont like to be hugged,especially being new.  Most are leary of a toddler or small child.  Just give him time.  They will be best buddies if started of right.

I just wanted to update Eddie's progress .  After reading all the advice I decided that I unfairly expected too much too soon of Eddie.  I have let him relax and have his space, which is my lap !  I have been very firm with my son, not allowing him to touch Eddie while he's sleeping.  When he does pet Eddie I hold his hand and emphasize "gentle" and make him give Eddie treats.  Eddie has not snapped since and has actually been playing with Mikey all day today.  They chased each other around the house closely supervised of course!   I think it will all be fine.  I thank you all for your advice and support and will keep you posted...

Thanks Tracey! Man  Daisy is such a cutie!  She and Eddie would almost be a matched pair if her ears were buttoned too lol

Tacey, No he doesn't have any!  He is strictly white with back & tan spots.  Is that considered piebald or tri-colored???

Donna, I am so sorry for your losses! I couldn't imagine losing a child .   You will see them both again  Thanks for your comments. You definitely made me feel better!