3 mo old aggresive shih-tzu

Question
I have a 13 week old shih-tzu who generally very happy, playful and lovable...until you get near her face.  My husband and I have been working to desensitize her to this, but it going very slow.  She will occasionally let us near her mouth, but for the most part she becomes very aggressive, growling and even attempting to bite. Am I correct in my assumption that this is fear biting? How can I stop it? Thank you for your help.

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

Thank you for writing to me about your puppy.  Regarding your puppy's growling, are you sure that she's not just playing?  Puppies at that age are learning what is called bite inhibition.  It sounds like your dog is playing with you the way she would play with another puppy.  If you observe the way puppies play, they growl at and bite each other.

Were you aware that sticking your face into your puppy's face might be interpeted as a sign of aggression?  Dogs never do that unless they are being aggressive and looking for trouble.  You may be scaring her, so it's best not to continue doing that at this time.

My best advice is to have an evaluation by a trainer who uses a positive reinforcement approach to training.  You might also consider taking a puppy training class which would be excellent for both of you.

I would advise you to contact the behavorists on all experts and consult with them about your relationship with your puppy and how to go about making sure that you are doing everything that is going to nurture her emotional growth.  Doing the wrong thing at this tender age can ruin a good dog for life.  Here are the names of the behavorists I am referring you to:

Anne Springer, B.S., Dip., CAPCT
Jill Connor, Ph.D.
Jody Epstein, APDT
Kathie Compton, BA, CDBC, CPDT-KA
Lee Charles Kelley

Do a search in this website and ask them your questions.  They specialize in behavioral issues and are best suited to help you.

Best of luck,
Shelley Davis