This sounds totally situational to me. The dog is trying to communicate that he doesn't want to do what your husband is trying to get him to do. He may now be conditioned to growl at night because he remembers he was dragged into the walk the last few days. I have two very old small dogs who have never bitten anyone in their life and are totally sweet, affectionate animals. But if they get accidentally smushed or I wake them up very suddenly or whatever situation that makes them very unhappy, sure they'll give a little growl.

Anonymous wrote:The dog is over being bothered at bed time. Unless this dog is peeing in the house there’s no need to bother him after he’s settled. Lots of dogs don’t appreciate that, especially older dogs. He has associated this bothersome behavior with your husband since he’s the one that is doing the bothering. The dog is giving a clear signal to stop disturbing his rest. Let him sleep and take him out in the morning.

Let sleeping dogs lie. It means they may be aggressive when you wake them up. I know it has another meaning also.

Anonymous wrote:Professional dog trainer:

This dog is giving very clear signals that it doesn’t want whatever is currently happening to continue. Husband should not do whatever is causing the dog to growl, or risk it escalating. If he must touch the dog for some reason, he should approach with high value treats to counteract the stress. If the dog can’t even take the treat, then he is way over stressed and I’d put him behind a barrier to allow him a chance to relax.

I agree with this. Watch out Op even a bite from a small dog is painful.
Experienced dog owner (30 years)

The dog is over being bothered at bed time. Unless this dog is peeing in the house there’s no need to bother him after he’s settled. Lots of dogs don’t appreciate that, especially older dogs. He has associated this bothersome behavior with your husband since he’s the one that is doing the bothering. The dog is giving a clear signal to stop disturbing his rest. Let him sleep and take him out in the morning.

My dog hates being moved once he’s settled in to bed at night. I wouldn’t like it either. I don’t think it’s anything to worry about. Can you give him his final walk before goes to bed?