new adopted 2 year old dog,growls at 9 and 5 year old

Hi, I would not let the dog growl at them, if you see the dog heading toward them get between the dog and them and let the dog know with body language that it's not acceptable. I also suggest long walks everyday with the dog and the children to help build a bond with them. Do you know anything about the dog's past? It may take some time but walking together and I would also find a local trainer near you that can work with you. A basic obedience class can help a lot too. Please keep us posted.

@Michele68

Hi, I would not let the dog growl at them, if you see the dog heading toward them get between the dog and them and let the dog know with body language that it's not acceptable. I also suggest long walks everyday with the dog and the children to help build a bond with them. Do you know anything about the dog's past? It may take some time but walking together and I would also find a local trainer near you that can work with you. A basic obedience class can help a lot too. Please keep us posted.

We do not allow the dog to growl at them but do either stand inbetween them and her or gently but firmly let her know it's not acceptable and praise her when she listens. She is meeting the Vet on friday and I'm going to ask him which trainors in the area are best to stop this behavior

That's good, yes, get between and firmly let her know it's not ok, you don't even need sound, just walk her backwards and when she moves away then praise her.

Don't punish a dog for growling, ever. A growl is a dog's way of telling you that's it's uncomfortable.  Suppressing a growl can lead to a dog going straight to a bite if growling had been suppressed. This is why people often say "he bit with no warning".  

Below are several articles explaining how best to deal with this behavior and keep everyone safe. I suggest getting a trainer or behaviorist involved to give you some guidance on how best to handle this.  Find someone who does not use punishment.

www.doggonesafe.com/growling_at_the_kids

www.livingwithkidsanddogs.com/learn.html

Another site that may help people understand why punishment is not recommended, especially with a dog exhibiting aggression. http://eileenanddogs.com/2014/09/19/effects-punishment/