QuestionI have a boxer/shepherd/pit bull mix dog. She has a tendency to chew/bite on people's arms when she is excited or just seeing you if she has been alone for a bit. Is this normal or is this something I should be worried about. She is almost 2 years old & I have never had any problems with her. She is very friendly with children & women but very wary of men. Any info you can provide me with will be great.
AnswerIf she is play biting people you need to, first restrain her from access to the front door on a visitor's arrival.
This can be done by crating her if she is already accustomed to being in a crate; tethering her out of range of the entry way; confining her safely to another room; or keeping her on leash as your guests arrive.
*** you will prevent her from practicing this very inappropriate greeting behavior. Taking these steps should allow your dog to avoid the high level of excitement. Allow her the privilege of being with you or your guests only when she is calm.
A nice greeting such as a "sit" would work great.
To teach her this, have someone hold her on leash.
Have yummy treats with you as you approach your dog.
If she sits as you approach say "yes" and give her a treat.
Be sure to offer the treat at her nose level so that she doesn't have to jump up to take it.
If she sits but jumps right up, say "oops" and turn away. Be patient, it may take a while for her to sit the first few times that you approach.
If necessary, lure with a treat the first several times until she gets the idea. Just be ready to say "yes" the split second that her bottom hits the floor and then give the treat.
Also, I have a friend that wrote a wonderful book - The HUMAN Pack - here is the link...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/1419675788/ref=sib_dp_pt#reader-link
Hope this helps:
Marie of The Doggie Chalet Hotel
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