I have a 1.5 year old dog...he's a shih tzu/yorkie mix about 12 lbs. He was prefect until around his first birthday, he started growling when picked up or when we try to give him a bath. He usually doesn't bite but he has nipped at my husband and I a couple times when he gets really mad. I'm not real sure how to handle this problem and I've gotten several books but nothing has seemed to help much. I asked the vet on his last visit and he said if we neuter him it would help but I was just wondering if anyone may have any other helpful tips to turn in into a sweet dog?
2006-12-25 07:25:34 · 12 answers · asked by Cindy C 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Your dog is a teenager, and will test authority and do "teenager things." Now is the time to correct them, so he won't continue these behaviors later in life. Neutering is a great first step, but it won't solve the problem. Your dog seems to be have dominance issues. He needs to know that you and your husband are alpha, and that he needs to be submissive. Have you been to obedience class with him? That would be a GREAT step to take in making sure he know that he has to listen to you. Everything needs to be on your terms - not his! Additionally, a behavior consultation with a well-reputed trainer could be a good idea.
Good luck - this is a solvable problem!
2006-12-25 07:37:23 · answer #1 · answered by maguire1202 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I had a similar problem with my chihuahua. He was the sweetest dog until about 10 months and turned into a snarling, biting beast. After lots of reading and researching I found out the best thing for putting a small dog in it's place is the Nothing in Life is Free program. http://www.k9deb.com/nilif.htm I had really good success with it, but you have to be really patient...it doesn't happen overnight. The reason smaller dogs have the reputation of being aggressive is because it's so easy to baby them and never correct them. If a big dog got away with the same behavior, it would be deemed dangerous. It's not usually until it's gotten way out of control that you realize these little guys can be hard to live with. Of course I'm sure you know you never hit a small dog...or any dog for that matter, but especially not an aggressive dog. It almost always makes the situation worse. Good luck...if you are really consistent it WILL pay off!
2006-12-25 20:50:42 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
This dog has dominance issues and probably weak nerves. The problem WILL escalate, unless it is nipped in the bud, NOW. First of all, as I have said before, neutering a dog with a problem like yours, will not stop it. The dog is not trying to have sex with you, he is trying to bite you. Obedience WILL help, but more so will an attitude adjustment. I am not an advocate of ever hitting a dog, but, there are exceptions to every rule, and this is one of them. The next time the dog tries to even growl or bark at you, or even look at you funny, he needs to have a very serious *** kicking, so serious that he will think that God's wrath has fell on him. And when you are administering it, so you do not feel bad, think of how much it will hurt if you do get bitten and the fact that you are also saving his life. He might end up at the pound being put to sleep if you cannot deal with him, or worse, he might bite a child. So, do not be afraid of letting him have it. Once he understands that his behavior will not be tolerated, he will change his mind. If you cannot bear the thought of raising your hand at this dog, please get rid of him before he bites you and make sure he goes into a home with no small kids and someone who will give him what he needs in life.
2006-12-25 09:50:22 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
That's not normal behavior. I have a small dog also,and it's definitely not typical or acceptable. you need to show your dog that he is lowest on the rung, and he is not the alpha in the family. talk to a really good trainer for advice. he can work with your dog and give you the best tips. you can also search a bit online, but there's just so much info, it's hard to sort it all out. that kind of behvior has to stop now, or else it WILL get worse. getting rid of a dog like that is also a terrible thing to do.. I know some people do it. it's not fair for the dog, as well as future owners, so the problem really needs to stop with you and your family. good luck!
2006-12-25 08:51:39 · answer #4 · answered by Emo B 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
To neuter a dog later will not change their habits. They are already to old. Your dog will most likely be this way forever. I wish i could help, but i work in a vet clinic and I see lots of aggresive dogs and believe me it only gets worse. Do not take chances around anyone because no one deserves to get bit.
2006-12-25 10:49:32 · answer #5 · answered by debra s 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Neutering won't stop it - it's healthier for him, but this dog has to be taught that this is not ok. When he goes to bite, tell him NO, very firmly and consistently. Don't tolerate it. He's not going to stop if you let him continue - tiny dogs are still dogs and need to be trained as to what they can and cannot do.
2006-12-25 07:35:05 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Good training and careful handling can solve the problem of a biting dog
2006-12-25 07:37:59 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
A border collie being saved in a cage is larger off in yet another residing house. prolonged crating motives psychological and actual ailment. you attempt to help, yet believe me the canines would be extra suitable off in a house the place this is allowed to run around and given plenty and many workout and interest, no longer caught in a field. Plus education from a video is a large waste of time. there's no one to terrific suited you once you're doing something incorrect.
2016-11-23 16:46:31 · answer #8 · answered by blunkall 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Small dogs are more agressive than large dogs, neutering will definetly help take some of the fight out of him. Good luck
2006-12-25 07:31:25 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
You can watch Dog Whisperer, Cesaa Millan on National Geographic channel to learn more about rehabilitation through exercise, discipline and affection.
You can check out the show at
http://www9.nationalgeographic.com/channel/dogwhisperer/video_preview_1.html
2006-12-25 10:39:16 · answer #10 · answered by Lisa 1 · 0⤊ 2⤋