Sheltie behavior

Question
Hi Dave,
  I purchased a Sheltie puppy from a very reputable breeder at 8 weeks of age. He is now 13 weeks old.
  I am used to large dogs, and recently lost my beloved Golden Retriever to cancer.
  My question is this: When we play and handle  our new puppy, he sometimes growls and nips. I am SO worried he will turn into a biting dog with temperment problems. Our breeder breeds for show quality dogs with outstanding temperments. Joey is growling when we pick him up, when we try to rub his tummy, or if I try to grrom him. Is this just puppy behavior, or am I seeing the beginning of aggressive behavior? I have always had large dogs because I believe their temperments are better than small dogs...but I wanted a smaller dog now that I am getting older. PLEASE tell me what I can do to prevent my beautiful boy from getting aggressive! Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.

Answer
Mindy,

I'm so sorry for you loss.  Thank you for supporting a reputable breeder.

Your Golden was bred with the focus of a work dog that brings back game during the hunt.  Shetland Sheepdogs are bred to control a willful flock of sheep. Think Babe the pig movie.  Very different mentality and genetics-very different job focus.

First, expect him to nip with his front teeth in a pinching kind of way.  Say NO when that happens and growl at him.  He isn't biting.  He is only expressing a natural genetic urge to control.

Second, give him an outlet for his urge.  If you can't supply him with sheep (or ducks or an entire farm) try letting him play with a large ball that he can push around.  

Third, when he does bite stick your hand down his throat until he recoils back saying "NO, DON'T BITE".  For the responsive breed the Sheltie is this is usually enough to stop biting behavior.

Growling: he doesn't like being picked up or rolled over.  He needs to get over the idea that he is in charge and understand that you are in charge.  If he growls at you growl back bigger while you are gently but firmly grabbing the scruff of his neck and pushing him down.  

Side note: the tummy up position is a very submissive and vulnerable position.  It takes time for them to be comfortable with this- let him get more accustomed to his place in your "pack" before you push this.  You don't want a timid Sheltie.

A Sheltie likes to be in control and needs to know who is boss.  You are establishing you are in control like his mother would.  You will have to determine the balance required between a good discipline and what is scary for him.  We don't want him terrified, just disciplined.

These methods will help you have a well rounded pup.  Read the other questions for more tips.  

Thanks!

Dave