QuestionI recently bought a Shetland Sheepdog at a reputable pet store. She is now 3 months of age and is showing some agression sings. She has growled and nipped at the vet when he was checking her. Is it too early to tell if this is a behavior problem? Isn't she too young to growl or show sings of aggression? The vet said that he never seen a puppy do that before. Should I wait and see if she does anything like that again before enrolling her in classes? Or do you think being at the vet might of had something to with it?
AnswerHi Dan,
Yes, being at the vet is not a good experience for anybody as there are lots of bad smells and sounds are around. However I would listen to the vet that he thinks the pup is too young to be aggressive.
I think you need to carefully socialize her. I say carefully because she may nip or bite someone, but she also needs to be relaxed around strange dogs and people. The best way to do this is by taking her to the local dog park on a busy day. See how she reacts. If she reacts well then go for the classes. If she doesn't react well consult the teacher before signing up.
As to your opening comment Dan: people tend to put their heads in sand when subjects come up that they don't like. I argue that there is no such thing as a reputable pet store. IF you bought your pup from a pet store the overwhelming odds are the conditions that her mother endures are terrible. Always buy where you see the conditions of the mother. I think you would benefit from reading a few sites:
http://www.nopuppymills.com/
http://www.prisonersofgreed.org/
Understand that we all know your girl will have a great home. Some of us have come to think that all dogs deserve a great home and not just a few.
I hope my answer was helpful.
Dave
