Vanessa Vleck Webboard User Reg: 07-20-2009
Posts: 42
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Hi Everyone,
My almost 5 month old GSD is really coming along nicely. He just finished "puppy kindergarten" and is learning some commands. Lately when I get down to his level to pet him or even praise him he makes a biting lurch toward my face. He's never bit my face or anyone for that matter (other than puppy mouthing) but it freaks me out when he does this - especially when he does it to my kids or even strangers. Not sure why he does it and would love some advice on how to stop it. When I correct him with a "no" he gets really agitated and then barks and still lurches up. I don't consider him an aggressive dog though, he's actually pretty sweet and calm most of the time!
Niomi Smith Webboard User Reg: 04-20-2009
Posts: 786
Loc: Whitehorse, Yukon
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There are a few things you could do.
The first thing that comes to mind is to step on the leash. So when you get down to his level or when someone already his level (kids) approach him, step on his leash and only give him enough room to sit/stand. When he finally realizes he can't really move, first he will get frustrated, then he will accept. When he accepts make sure you mark and reward.
At this age we kept a drag line on Falcon at all times. Not a leash with a "loop" at the end that could get caught on things, just a line he dragged with him - approx. 4' long. It allowed us to have a bit more control if he began doing something he wasn't supposed to do. I also strongly recommend learning about Marker training! It will help you teach this little guy in a positive way and engage his mind.
You can start to anticipate his leaping at faces by putting him in a sit/down/place (after teaching this) prior to you getting on the floor and then reward him for doing something correctly instead of having to "correct" him for something inappropriate. Try to keep it proactive, positive and fun at this stage!
The drag line is key. Or the crate. The puppy needs to know who controls his movement (you, the pack leader). My puppy would get wild about 6:00 in the evening and really get going once she actually engaged us. I would first redirect with a short training session, if she kept up the naughty behavior, I would limit her activity by tethering her to me, and if she kept up the pestering, into the crate!
Sometimes they just have a hard time calming down without help.
Vanessa Vleck Webboard User Reg: 07-20-2009
Posts: 42
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Thanks everyone. I keep Tonto on a line at all times outside or when he is moving in the house. Otherwise he is in the kitchen and roams around there (we have gates up). He is very good at staying out of trouble in the kitchen...you all make me wonder if I should have a line on him even in there to establish that I control his moves...
My puppy K class used markers in a very light way. I have been using the word "yes!" and using treats when he is doing just what I am after. He is not very food motivated...more ball motivated.
It's one heck of an undertaking to raise a good dog, but I am in for the long haul and appreciate this board so much.
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Puppy nipping towards face - how to stop it?
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