| I think I'm missing something... I don't see anything wrong on your part. Is the problem that she was brought to the point of growling?
I went through a stage with my dog where I was giving her more privileges for good behavior, then one day (to my supsrise) I got a little growl when I went for a toy she was playing with. She and I took some steps back and that problem is solved. I think taking away some privileges will readjust her high opinion of herself-- and you'll be right back on track.
That said-- I wonder if there was a miscommunication. On the back is *generally* a sign of submission. *Maybe* she was trying to tell you "okay master you're pissed and I am your lowly slave"-- but then when you went for her collar she was freaked by you "going after her neck" after she tried to call and truce and growled as a fight/flight response? (I have heard some dogs will learn the lying down behavior to avoid being moved... so this definitely isn't the only explanation here.) Even if this was the reason, taking her back a couple steps will still be good. She should believe you are number 1, and fair-- and taking her down on the totem pole should help this.
And finally... I think you have every right to take her to her crate. The crate is not punishment, and if she can't sleep in the room with you-- it's fine for her to have a vacation in her crate. ;) And once it has escalated into a challenge it is your RESPONSIBILITY to finish the challenge the way you intended it to end so that type of behavior isn't reinforced.
-chloe  |