aggressive puppy behaviour

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have recently purchased an 8 wk male mini poodle pup from a reputable breeder where I live. I have seen this dog since he was 10 days old. He came from the breeder in good health. Grooming is the issue. She had groomed him twice (clip face, feet,tail & bath) I tried to comb him very gently only to be returned with a screaming hysterical pup baring his teeth to me. When flipped onto his back and held, he continued to scream and try to bite and fight. I explained this to the breeder who didn't really believe me. He went back last night and she saw the whole performace. She said she thought Iwas crazy telling her this.  I have had 3 dogs in my life and none have ever displayed any sign of aggression or try to be dominant like this pup. I don't feel this is appropriate behaviour at such a young age and have concerns that this might turn into a fear biter. What do you feel is the best approach. I have been told that to leave him and he will grow out of it by 6 months, other breeders have said just groom him anyway. I don't want to ruin this pup, but then again I will not keep a dog with behaviour issues showing up so early in life.  Thank you so much for your time, Paula

ANSWER: Are you only seeing the behavior problem when you try to groom him?  You might try having the breeder show you how she does it, since she apparently didn't have the problem.  Even if not, it is still troubling.

Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog.  Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones.  You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/  

Here are some more things appropriate to a young puppy:

''Elevation for small puppies:  Sit on the floor and gently put your hands around your pup's middle, below his front legs, and lift him up.  He is facing you.  Hold him for 15 seconds.  Repeat until he no longer struggles.  If he is past 10-12 weeks, lift his front feet off the ground, but don't pick him up.  

Cradling for small puppies:  Hold your puppy gently on his back, as you would cradle a small baby.  If he struggles, hold him firmly until he quiets for 10-15 seconds.  With larger pups, you can do this as your sit on the floor, with your pup between your legs.

Quiet lying down:  Place your pup on the floor on his side, with all 4 legs pointing away from you.  Use your hands on his neck/shoulder area and middle, to hold him in this position.  When he is quiet, praise him.  Lengthen the time that you keep him quietly in this position.  When he accepts this position well, handle his paws and muzzle, while keeping him quiet.''


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your reply. The breeder was quite horrified when he acted this way with her. He was actually worse. This pup will not accept being flipped over or held down. He gets hysterical. She said she thought I was crazy what I was telling her..I had said I would try to work with him more, but am not going to keep him if his behavior does not improve.

Answer
Some puppies are much more difficult than others.  This sounds like he has made a sudden turn for the worse, and beyond anything normal.  Most behavior changes need to be checked by the vet.  For the vet to find a treatable problem may be your best hope.