[jadabug]

Originally Posted by Britster

Well, the nipping is definitely something needing to be corrected right away. If she's been getting away with it, she probably thinks it's okay. You're right; it sounds like she is protecting you and/or her territory. When you know you have guests coming over, leash her up when they are entering and/or leaving the house so she's not able to nip at them. When she tries, just pull her back on her leash and tell her no. You can re-direct her attention using her favorite toy or favorite treat. When she does well, praise and treat to let her know she's doing the right thing. Don't coddle her or hold her when guests are over, she probably thinks you are HER property and is protecting you.

Also, for barking, there is a thing called a Bark Repeller, it's made by Pet Parade and is $10 on Amazon.com. I love it and MANY people on this site have recommend it. It just emits a sound they don't like, and you use a word with it, such as 'quiet' so they soon learn that it means no barking. You can also use a spray bottle with water, or pennies/coins in a can and shake it. You can also use these tools for the nipping... as soon as she 'attacks' the guests pant legs, use the repeller (or whatever you choose) *right* before she does it... sound aversion so that she backs away and doesn't do it.

Thanks for the advice. I have the bark repeller and it has been working. Before using it I couldn't get her barking under control at times. I think I know where I am going wrong. Today DS was home and she went up to him barking at least 4 times. She doesn't really nip she just gets right up to him and barks like she is going to eat him alive. Out of those times today I got her to stop by telling her now bark and sssh. The one time I couldn't make her stop I picked her up. I am bad for that, I will try the leash.