[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.

I just wanted to say thanks....the leash idea is really working. I tried it with my DIL wed(Jada always barks at her) it really worked she sat by my feet and didn't bark at her but the one time. I tried it again tonight when DS came home, worked great. I am going to continue with this until she doesn't bark at all when people are coming and going.