[Emily's mommy]

Hi! It's been a while since I was on since a massive power outage on the east coast. In that time Emily turned six months old and has become so much more nippy. She is much more possessive and guards anything she scavenged, socks, kids toys, etc. much more than before. She even bit both my younger boys when they tried to take a Lego piece back, and growled and barred her teeth and then bit me! thank goodness she did not break skin! I am so worried that she will be a biter, which would not be acceptable in our home with young children around all the time! And she is so sweet otherwise! Is this dominance aggression, fear biting, or normal puppy adolescence?

 

[mum2bobs]

Thats a problem isn't it, especially with young kids about.

Is she like this all the time or is it now and again? Also, is it related to her being in season or is she spayed?

 

[cleo]

I have definately seen a difference in Pixel since she hit the 6 months stage. She has been off her food a little bit, she is testing the boundaries, barking more, is very active and has started to stred paper and things she finds in the house which she never did before. But I do find that her nippiness (if that's a word!) has calmed down quite a lot. She doesn't nip too much now and is not processive of her things.

I would really try and nip it in the bud straight away, especially as you have children. Maybe there is another reason apart from her age?

 

[Emily's mommy]

I am actually going to be taking Emily to a vet behaviorist on Friday to discuss the nipping/biting. I am so fearful that she will say that we should find Emily a new home without small kids; one vet said that he thinks she is too anxious and stressed in our house with all the chaos and noise everyday with three kids. I can't imagine our home without her! Wish us luck!

 

[Sezra]

Good luck Sheryl, I am sure they will have some good advice for you. Let us know how you get on.

 

[wellerfeller]

Hi Sheryl, the person I was talking about in you area was vinnieB, they have adopted a cockapoo. Look up the username and see if they are actually close to you, my geography isn't too hot