Re: Agressive Biting--Wits' end!

Posted by: Heather Reid
Posted on: May 01, 2001 at 08:58:48

In Reply to: Agressive Biting--Wits' end!
Posted by: Catherine
Posted on: April 29, 2001 at 16:03:35

Question:

: Hello.

: I did read your topic concerning Agressive Biting.

: However, I have a 5 month old JRT puppy (male) who incessantly bites both me (especially me) and my husband every time we go to pick him and and love him.

: I am a former dog trainer, so I know about the technique you describe with the 'no-bite' and curling of his lips under his teeth to make him bite himself,,

: do you know what he does after this correction? He lurches back at us snarling and curling up his lips and clapping his jaws in attempt to bite us again. We received him when he was 3 1/2 months old. We have been dealing with this situation since then, and we have been very consistent with 'no-bite' technique.

: My spouse and I are besides ourselves about what to do with this little guy. This happens every time we pick him up to hug and love him he starts to bite on us, then we do the no-bite correction..and the cycle begins. We have tried time-out as well...we don't want to resort to hard spanking (beating) because it is both unpleasant for us and we could seriously injure him ...I am thinking to give him back to the breeder...your feedback is appreciated as we are at our wits end

: Thanks for all your hardwork, we all appreciate your time and energy

------------------ Response Area -------------------
Hi Catherine,
As a former dog trainer, you should know that the "no bite" correction is for normal puppy nipping, not for aggressive behavior. You need to consult a professional behaviorist AND the breeder on this situation, and ask them to help you gain and maintain alpha status in your pack. Right now, it sounds like the little guy is running the whole show.
If you want to hit him, that is the VERY best way I can think of to make him more aggressive. By acting aggressively, you will teach and reinforce your pup to act aggressively. This is something a trainer should know as well. I would seriously reconsider taking up this habit.
Good luck!
Heather