Is there a difference between a "puppy growl" and a serious warning growl?

Here's an issue I've been wondering about with Nellie: sometimes she does a little puppy growl when she is being restrained or picked up. She won't growl all of the time but usually when she really doesn't want to be picked up, etc. Sometimes these growls are accompanied by little "puppy fits" such as struggling and moaning and occasional mouthing, but never turn out to be anything serious.

She also growls when hands reach for high value items in her mouth, which is an issue I do take seriously, but not the type of growl I'm asking about. (Though any tips on how to work with that would be welcome too.)

Should I be taking these "puppy growls" seriously or are they just something she does to try and stop me from doing what I need to do?

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Permalink Reply by Anna Morelli on April 19, 2013 at 4:11pm

Have you discussed this with the breeder? The breeder should be familiar with your particular puppy and it's personality and be a resource for you as a first time owner. This is one of the best reasons to buy from a reputable breeder. Since elsewhere you mentioned your puppy's lines, take full advantage of that resource and guidance.