Re: Biting

In Reply to: Biting
Posted by:  Conrad
Posted on:  February 28, 2001 at 22:18:45

: Our JRT Max bit my son in the face tonight while he was chewing a rawhide chew. My son was trying to "kiss him goodnight". I ralize it's not a good idea to bother Max when he is chewing or eating but what can I do to prevent this behavior? I told my son it wasn't the dog's fault and he should respect Max's space.
: How can we train Max to see my son more as a "alpha dog"?

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Hi, Conrad,

You don't give an indication of how old your son is, so it's hard to tell you what to do. I guess I'd start with seeing to it that all "goodnight kisses" cease.

I know it seems like "biting a child in the face" is the thing you need to address, but unfortunately, that's not where you start when you're dealing with a dog. There are reasons behind the biting that have to be adressed, and it sounds like the dog is ruling the roost. I realize you already said you want Max to see your son as more of an alpha, but I want to make sure you realizing that the biting isn't the problem... it's the fact that nearly all Jack Russells are capable of this because they too easily find themselves feelings superior to children.

A good trainer could help you assert your whole family's dominance over your dog. Picking up some good books on behavior would be helpful, too. There's no quick fix for this. Your son has to respect Max's space from here on out and it would help greatly if you would do some obedience work, as well. If Max is going to be possession aggressive, he needs to be crated as it is not safe to let him chew on something where your child may (even accidently) invade his space.

Children FAQ, Crating FAQ, Nipping FAQ, Training Books, Training Tips

Good luck!