My cocker puppy is become aggressive

Question
QUESTION: I purchased/adopted a cocker about 2 weeks ago. he had been in a kennel for 3 weeks and need a loving family. He is so cute, but I think I have been decieved.

Yesterday, I took him to the park and we came across another pup (lab, same size) and "jessie" went nuts. I had never seen him act like this. He wanted to fight. Teeth showing, hair standing up. I mean he was mad. I reached down to pull him back by his harness, and he turned and bit me. (hard) What do I do? I cannot have this type of behavior. Please help.

Also, he seems very difficult to potty train, any suggestions?


ANSWER: You haven't been deceived :)   This is typical puppy behavior and he needs to be taught how to behave.

He also needs at least two weeks to settle down in his new home.

You are totally right in that this cannot be tolerated and he needs training.

I need more information to try and help.
How old is he?
How is he with people?
Is it possible to contact his previous owners?
How are you teaching him to get housebroken?
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have had him for 2 weeks and 3 days, he is 4 months old. He seems to do very good with people, likes to play, etc. He can get a little rough, but I expect that from a puppy. But he acted very aggressive again yesterday towards another dog, (this one full grown) again when I tried to get him out of the situation, he turned and bit me.

I got him from a pet store, so I have no way to contact anyone other than them, and they have not been completely honest about the puppy.

Yes, he seems to be doing pretty well with the house training, as long as I watch him.
Thanks for your help, as I love the little guy. His adoption was a lifetime thing for us, but the aggressive behavior I do not know how to deal with.

Answer
Okay...at 16 weeks this is FAR more easily handled than with an older dog.

Shannon, I'd like you to write me directly at DeeBeck7765@aol.com and I'll walk you through some basic training and how to end this behavior reasonably quickly.

Not to worry, the earlier this is handled, the better.

I will tell you right now that the key to changing a dog's behavior is to "anticipate" and correct...not wait 'till the pup is in full blown action.

So write me and we'll organize a plan of action :)  I'd love to help you since I've "been there-done that" several times and know how quickly they learn at this age.
Delores