Re: Aggression towards other dogs

In Reply to: Aggression towards other dogs
Category:   Aggression
Posted by:  Noelle
Posted on:  January 31, 2003 at 14:20:42

: My 6 month old JRT altered female lives with two newfoundlands. She gets along fine with the male, but goes after the female's legs whenever someone comes into the house or there is a lot of excitement. She doesn't do it any other time or to anything or anyone else. We have tried using the "NO!" command, and she will stop, but go right back to it. It is getting bad, what do you suggest as a plan of action?

Response:

Dear Noelle,

"NO!" isn't a command unless it's followed by a verb -- no bite, no bark, etc. However, it can be an effective attention-getter which is why your pup stops the behavior; the lack of direction is why she goes right back to it.

I suggest a more effective attention-getter is using your terrier's name in the same tone of voice as you say NO! and then commanding her to "SIT!" or get "OFF!" This is best taught on a regular basis as is any type of training; 3-4 times a day, 5 minutes tops and always end on a good note. Trying to teach a pup to behave "in the moment" will set you both up for failure.

Pay careful attention to the pack dynamics -- two females (even if one is altered) can still jockey for position as the alpha. Since your JRT is younger and smaller then her "big" sister and the latest dog to join the pack, I suggest you take the appropriate steps to help her understand her place.