Creating kinder, gentler experiences for pets


     

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Play Mouthing and Bite Inhibition

Puppy Serious Biting

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 Dog Behavior Library

Puppy Serious Biting (not from fear)

Some dogs become bullies. They want to control all of their resources and they will growl and bite to keep them. The puppy is saying, "You can't do that, and I'm going to tell you with my teeth, because I have learned this makes humans stop." This typically occurs in puppies who were taken away from Mom very early, have not been taught acceptable puppy behaviors, or were bred to be guard dogs. This is a serious symptom of a dog that may become uncontrollably aggressive in the future if steps are not taken immediately. They are dangerous. The younger you start with this type of symptom, the easier it will be to resolve. The best time to start all puppy training is the moment you bring them home. Remember, If you respond aggressively to any behavior your pet shows, you increase the likelyhood they will respond with aggression toward you or others. This pup may be great 90% of the time but at this time they are never completly trustworthy.

As they get older this
personality of dog may protect you and your house but they could turn on you at any time they don't like something you did. If your dog is being trained to guard (NOT recommended for the average household pet) the question becomes, "Can you stop aggression when you want to?" The goal is to be able to control your own dog. It takes a professional to train these dogs and they will train you how to handle them as well.

Start with these non-physical methods:

  • Avoid all interactions that cause growling or other aggressive signals.
  • Start with hand feeding, and only giving food if it is taken gently. (Close your hand if the puppy acts rough, open it if he's gentle.) If they are not intersted in food, it is okay to withhold food in a healthy pup for the purpose of increasing motivation (up to 24 hours). Let the pup know you provide the food. Begin to exchange food for the right to touch the pup. Reward only what you want: calm acceptance of you.
  • Begin Leadership and Gentling Exercises. Instructions are available from the same source as this page.
  • Don't "play fight" (box) with the dog. This gives the message it is okay to growl and bite your hands.
  • Avoid games that you can not stop by saying the dog's name or asking for a Sit.

Copyright © 2001-Present with All Rights Reserved by Rolan Tripp, DVM and Susan Tripp, MS | Animal Behavior Network & Affiliates