Scared puppy

[Jenkins]

Well, our puppy still has a few behavioural issues, stealing things for attention, occassionally biting. And he is getting more aggressive, last night I was going to take him out and he kept biting my shoes and shin, so evantually after trying to ignore it I lost it, I turned around with gritted teeth and said "Dont you dare bite me" not shouted but I did say it louder than normal talking. And he growled and started biting, he went into defensive mode and stood there barking at me, the thing was even a small puppy like him look pretty intimidating, it was quite a display he put on. Im more worried about when he is older, as he is going to be a very big dog.

Another problem, he seems to be terrified of leaving the house, we managed to get him to go for one walk and that was only because everybody was there. However, he refuses to walk wen the "pack" is seperated. He will go into our garden, slightly hesitant, but bolt back in when he hears a train, another dog barking, etc. When my dad tried to take him for a walk he just dug in and wouldnt move, what do you reccomend, I pick him up and take him for a walk to show him the way?

 

[Dizzy]

No idea about the aggression stuff.. Sorry..

But as for walking and going outside. We have just started taking Bodhi out for her 1st walks, and these are my experiences so far. I am not an expert, but this is what I have done!

She is slightly overwhelmed by all the new smells, sights and sounds. She doesn't really enjoy walking along roadsides. She basically either tries to drag behind or run up ahead and off! So, I have tried to make walkies fun. Even just picking up a stick or a leaf and waggling it around in front of her and she forgets all about her worries and the tail starts wagging! I keep talking to her, and keep her attention on me (not always that easy!). After awhile she starts to enjoy it. In fact last night, on our way out she behaved as usual (dragging behaind).. And on the way home, after some leaf waggling, she was happy as larry! I just need to keep at it.

Try just walking up and down your road armed with toys and treats! Once he relaxes a bit, try going a bit further.

Also, we have taken Bodhi for a walk along the prom by the beach, which she LOVED.. Not worried at all, so, now I know which environment she finds unsettling, I can work on that (ie roads).#

Hope that helps somehow!

 

[Doberluv]

These behavioral "issues" aren't his fault. It sounds like he needs more to do to keep him busy. What breed and age is this puppy? How much exercise is he getting? Are you working on basic obedience practice? Remember, puppies have short attention spans but you can practice several times a day for short periods. He needs a job. It sounds like he's bored and frustrated and that's why he's desperately looking for something do. Obedience practice gives him something to do with his mind, redirects that energy into something constructive an demonstrates to him that you are in charge. Losing your cool, on the other hand makes you look like a less than in charge leader, so he won't tend to respect or obey you. Try distracting him away from things you don't want him to do and stress the reward for things you do like. In other words, watch for any behaviors that you do like and be sure to reward for those. I think you'll see a turn around. The rebelliousness comes from his being unsure of you as a leader. You can impliment some of NILIF to help. Be sure and keep your emotions calm, quiet, firm and fair. Be a confident leader and take things in stride, matter of fact with your dog. I hope some of this helps.

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/nothingfree.htm

Here is a great way to get results. You don't have to use a clicker, but use the concept and methods. I think you and your puppy will benefit greatly by this fun, effective method. You won't get so frustrated and your puppy will enjoy learning. You'll get a lot further with him. Like they say, you attract more bees with honey.

http://www.clickerlessons.com/index.html

 

[JR0579]

What breed is he ? Where did you get him ... breeder / petstore / shelter ?
How long have u had him for ?

 

[MonaD]

How old is your pup?
I think puppies have an ingrained "fear period" that they do mature out of.

I know when Murph was around 4 months she was quite terrified by a lot of things (walking past the neighbour's garage, other dogs, the wheelbarrow) and she did NOT like walking outside of her regular, very small route. She would bark and growl and freak out at other dogs (even tiny ones) and whimper and whine at others.
Constant exposure to a wide range of experiences, people, animals and objects, as well as very basic puppy training seemed to help a lot, and she just grew out of it. Every day we walked "the route" and eventually she became more comfortable exploring further.

Eventually, I took her down to the local shopping centre entrance and stood with her outside the door. All kinds of coming and goings there, old people with canes, yelling teenagers, tiny children, bikes, other dogs, wheelchairs etc. It was a great way to 'socialize' her to all different types of people and things. And it did help to teach her to be calm amongst all that ruckus. I'm not suggesting that now for your pup, but once he matures a bit perhaps.

She also used to nip me for attention, or while we were playing-firm NO!'s and ignoring her for a few minutes helped to eliminate that.

Your little guy may be exploring his boundaries with you, and can do that because he feels safe with you.
I hope things get better as he matures a bit.
Good Luck