7-year-old rescued poodle who is biting

Question
We have a wonderful rescue facility here in Kansas City that several weeks ago received as a "drop off" a 7-year-old toy poodle (approx. 7 lbs.).  The woman said he had been running loose in her yard, however, the rescue facility staff said that it was obvious the dog was her dog--he was completely calm in her arms and not aggressive whatsoever.  She left him with them, and he has not stopped trying to bite people since that time.  They have worked with him for several weeks now, and he does not seem to be making any progress.  Do you have any recommendations?  He will unfortunately be deemed unadoptable if they can not stop his biting and help him calm down.  That is so said, since this little guy I am sure is scared and not sure where he is, why he is there, or where his people are, and I am sure that is contributing to his aggression.  Thank you for any suggestions you can offer.  (Also, what do you think of the use of muzzles during the initial obedience training in a case like this?)

Answer
Sandy, without seeing him in person, I cannot give accurate advice. I would strongly suggest that you contact a local behaviorist/trainer that can come and evaluate him and help you figure out the best way to train him. It's difficult to say exactly what to do without seeing when/how he is behaving, and what he is reacting to.

Sometimes, dogs do NOT do very well when in a shelter/kennel environment. Has anyone tried taking him home with them to keep, and see if his aggressiveness subsides when in a home environment?


A muzzle will probably only stress him out more, and make obedience training that much more difficult.