April 21, 2011

I have a 4 month old puppy that growls at everyone she meets. What should I do?

Full Question:
I recently read your article 'Bite Training Puppies,' which I found to be refreshing for lack of a better word. I currently have a 4 month old pup who has been mouthy every since I've had him. Sam growls at anybody he doesn't know, but he is fine with the immediate family, he also had a habit of snapping at the heels of strangers. Last month I took my dog to see the vet and my pup started growling at the vet. The vet told me my dog had a socialization problem, and I need to get him socialized as soon as possible, she said he may be a fear biter and if my pup doesn't grow out of it I may need to consider having him put down. What if any are your comments on this?
Ed
Ed Ed's Answer:
I suggest you get a couple of tapes that will teach you a lot:

Basic Dog Obedience
Your Puppy 8 Weeks to 8 Months

You also need to get a dog crate and crate train your dog. Then when there are times of stress for the dog that you are aware of ahead of time - it goes in the dog crate. She should be in a crate at this time. The same goes when you leave the house.

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Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
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