I need some HELP!! This behavior is getting way out of control....

[PhoebeK]

Originally Posted by QuickSilver

Okay, so it sounds like she is biting for different reasons. Biting when you take something fun away is "resource guarding". When you pick her up to prevent her from tangling with other dogs, she is probably redirecting her fear and aggression onto you.

There are some established methods to reduce resource guarding. You can google this, or search YT for this term. I think there are some other active threads going on about how to fix this behavior.

The fear-based aggression - it's all about distract and reward. I know it's difficult. I never allow Thor in front of me on walks, and even after months and months of practice, he STILL runs ahead of me to growl at other dogs. It takes a lot of patience and persistence.

I would work on the resource guarding first, because this behavior is easier to fix. The work you do with her there might spill over into her overall demeanor. The key to both is to catch her before she's worked herself into a frenzy. Easier said than done, I know.

I would also recommend more exercise. Whatever she gets now, add 15-30 minutes more per day of a strenuous activity, like fetch or keep away.

As challenging as it is, I urge you to work hard on this, because it's not really acceptable for her to bite you. I think this probably does indicate a problem with the chain of command in your house. That might also be exacerbating her aggression problems - her belief that she's in charge may be causing her a lot of anxiety, which keys her up to bite more.

Thank you very much for all of your advice (and to everyone else as well) I will try your suggestions. I know that persistence and consistency is key so we will work harder at that. Thanks Again

[DanielleAllen]

Originally Posted by Gigi485

Sounds like she's taking the Pack Leader role. As soon as you let a dog on your bed it confuses them into thinking they are the pack leader. The bed and most comfortable spot is always reserved for the highest in the pack. Maybe get a doggie bed or an old blanket and let her sleep on the floor NEXT to your bed. This will re-establish yours and your husbands role as the Pack Leader.

Also, the Pack Leader's job is to protect the pack and correct the pack. Hence the biting. She thinks she's correcting you for something. Check out Cesar Milan books - dog psychology. Worked for me!

I love his books. They are wonderful. However I let my dog sleep with me and I am still the pack leader. I remember him saying that packs share sleeping area with the pack leader, you just need rules! I would really suggest getting his books. They are wonderful and have really helped us in this house. We have 2 labs, a rottie, a 8 week of yorkie and another yorkie will be joining our pack 4-18. We are the pack leaders of this house! THanks to his books....