dog kniping

Question
My dog has never been around children and recently has kniped at one. I am concerned about this behavior and do not want it to continue! How do I get this under control? He is a hearding dog, 4 years old. I love him very much and I would be devistated if I had to get rid of him for this!!!

Answer
First you will have to get some children to cooperate with you... You should take him to a local Obedience class where there is a lot of commotion and children.  Also take him outside a school yard fence where he can watch children play...If he is calm you feed him the second best treats he has ever had and if a child comes to the fence  you have the child feed him the best treats he has ever had.  Now if he fusses before the child gets near the fence, ask the child to stay at a point where you dog is not fussing; say 10 feet or 20 feet away..  You feed the best treats to him as long as he is calm.  Ask the child to come one step closer (as long as your dog is being calm).
Lastly, if he ever nips again, he should get a severe correction.  You could use the "pop", which bringing your had (top side up) up under his chin and popping his mouth closed with a sharp no.  If that doesn't do it, then put your hand on the back of his neck and put him down on his side also saying "no" sharply.  Keep him on his side until he is submissive....
I don't like the last two methods, so try and prevent that by socializing, it can be done.  After all, he hasn't had a bad experience, he is just inexperienced with children so don't let it get to the point where he feels he has to nip.
nancy