aggressive behavior toward owner--help!
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aggressive behavior toward owner--help!
Submitted by admin on April 20, 2010 - 6:27pm
Bubba our 4 month old bulldog has become more aggressive than he has been. He is really loosing teeth right now and at first I thought that might be why. We are also gone during theday from about 7:30-6:00. We do have someone that comes over during the day for about 20 minutes. i also thought that might be why. We are kind of beside ourselves. He went at my husband and latched on to his hand. We have tried to do the high pitched ouch thing--does not work at all. We have also tried to spray Bitter apple on our hands--does not work. This morning he latched on pretty and my husband it was like Bubba was trying to hurt him. What should we do?
The other thing that goes along with this is that Bubba for the last two nights has been getting up and barking and crawling. We take him out and then he usually sleeps with us, but is only trying to bite at us or become aggressive towards us. If we put him back in his crate he whines.
This is our first bulldog and we have tried so hard to train him. What else can we do--we are very frustrated. We love our dog and only want what is best for him, but right now are clueless.
Sara
Another idea for chew toy for teething....
Soak the rags or towels or socks or whatever in broth and then freeze them...they really go for that. I would also suggest that he not get into bed as he may start to see himself as your equal....would get him into another puppy class or beginner class...4 months old can be a very independent stage besides...he may need more reminders of obedience so when he bites a good firm NO along with maybe a spray of water with lemon juice in his face may stop him when he latches on.
Lorraine Eyth
Bubba
Good for you Sara, I love puppy classes. But I have to say, most of the owners have that "what was I thinking" look when they first come in. They are a ton of work but well worth it. Keep it fun.
Smooches to the land shark
Lynn K
Bubba
thanks lynn
We actually just finished with puppy classes. They were very good and positive reinforcement. We will try. I will keep you posted
Bubba
Sara,
Puppies can be very frustrating, be patient.
Are you playing with him when he "latches" on? With all puppy biting, we have to first let them know what it is unacceptable and second, we have to show them the alternative. When he begins to bite, a high pitched "ouch" but then give him an appropriate chew toy and praise him when he takes it. If he is teething, try tieing a dish cloth into knots, soak it in water and freeze it. A soft toy is also good. As with all toys designed for chewing, keep an eye on him so he doesnt swallow any little pieces. If he is becoming overstimulated when you are playing and starts the "latching" on, end play before he gets to that point and put him in his crate with a good chew toy to help him settle down.
If he is waking during the night and whining, take him outside to potty, say nothing to him, no playing, no treats and put him back in his crate. Do not take him out when he is just whining, by doing so, you are reinforcing that behavior. He is learning that if he barks/whines he gets out and gets attention, that is not something you want to teach him. Dont let the whining get to you, he'll do just fine left in his crate, it may take a few nights.
I also suggest you take him to classes that use positive reinforcement training. Classes are great for socialization, skills and helps your pup learn self control. If you want, let me know where you live and I will try to locate someone near you.
Good luck and be patient
Lynn K