Help!!!! NiP Fest

Jax11

ok so we just got a sheltie puppy he has been with us for almost 2 weeks now, and he is 11 weeks old. when we first got him he was very playful not shy at all. He warmed up very fast. His nipping was very limited and very soft, but now it is more of an aggressive nip he barks and crouches and gets more wound up when we either say Jax No! or if we use the Ouch method and do not pay attention to him. It is becoming a bad issue. he is sometimes walking by and just snaps at me. He also does it to my younger sister. She is 12 and takes care of him very well, (no rough play). What else can we try to get him to stop this before it is too late. Thank you for your time.

gingersmom

It is good that you are starting to teach the puppy early not to nip. Here's an article that may help:

http://www.paw-rescue.org/PAW/PETTIP...Inhibition.php

When he crouches, he's inviting you to play, and if he does not accept your "no" then he needs to learn play manners. Walking away and refusing to play is the best approach. Some dogs respond to a gentle tap on the chin (just to get his attention). In this case, though, he might think that means you are willing to play.

Shelties are herding dogs, so it may help if you can find a way to let him practice "herding" safely. Perhaps he has two or three stuffies he can begin learning to gather together in a basket?

dre2142

I have a 6 month old sheltie now, and the OUCH method worked well for him. the 2nd or third time he does it we walk away from him, or put him by himself on a leash tied to a door knob for a minute or two. He has seemed to get the point.

Just stay consistant, and your pup will learn. Hes still young. It took a few weeks for my pup to really get the point. It took a little longer for him to stop with my wife.

Jax11

Thanks alot, to the both of you. Sounds like patience is the key. I will keep on with the Ouch method and hopefully it will work out fine. Thanks again.

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