[harleychik66]

How old was your boy when you got him and how old is he now? How much training/socialization have you done?

It sounds to me as if you have not shown him what is acceptable and what isn't. You have shown him love but no discipline. Since you make no mention of how you correct him or are dealing with these issues I'm not sure how to respond.

You say you have partial control, but from your post it sounds as if you have no control. He's good when HE wants to be and unruly when HE chooses to be. Just because he's not always misbehaving doesn't mean you have control. It only sounds as if he behaves when things go his way. If something as minor as trimming his tail hair or putting advantix on him causes him to pitch a fit, you definately have some control issues.

I would highly recommend speaking with a behaviorist. They can help you assess your situation and recommend the steps you need to take to move forward in the training of your boy. Signing up for obedience classes would also be a step in the right direction. You can also start with the implementation of NILIF, which stand for nothing in life is free. Do a search here and you will come up with many posts discussing how it works.

The good thing is you have realized there is a problem and are willing to work to fix it. I would also recommend not leaving your boy unattended with the kids. Not only because of his undesirable behaviors, but because any dog/child combination should be supervised.