[boxer_brandi]

Good morning,
I have a 6 month boxer mix puppy that i adopted. I've had her for the last 4 months, but am struggling to stop some of her bad behavior, and would love some insight.
she has probably 30 + toys, however she finds more enjoyment in "attacking" her humans. Allow me to describe the "attack".
Typically you will be laying or sitting on the couch and she will come over, lunge at you, and begin nipping while playfully grunting.
I assume that she is asking to play, however this happens even after multiple hours of playing.

Could this be over hyper activity? Any ideas on how to stop?
Any insight is appreciated.

 

[Knute]

I can only offer suggestions.

Longer walks and outdoor play.

Ignore the behavior. Don't react, don't speak......just ignore. You know....like a teenager ignores their parents.

Soon the dog will learn this does not get the attention he wants. Soon, you can reward for acceptable behavior.

Good luck

 

[boxer_brandi]

appreciated knute, this seems to be the consensus, but easier said then done. Is this something she will grow out of?

 

[LeoRose]

Sounds like she's trying to engage you. She needs to learn that teeth on human skin means that all interactions stop. Either pop her in her crate or leave the room for a couple of minutes every time it happens.

Also, if she is still ready and rarin' to go after lots of physical exercise, it could be that she is so over-stimulated and wound up that she can't settle down. Adding in mental stimulation, like short 5 to 10 minute training sessions throughout the day, will wear her down just as much, if not more than half an hour of playing, without the hyped up feeling that goes with physical activity. Nosework, either formal training or just hiding treats around the house for her to find, or tossing a handful of kibble into the grass, is especially good for wearing a dog out.

 

[boxer_brandi]

Sounds like she's trying to engage you. She needs to learn that teeth on human skin means that all interactions stop. Either pop her in her crate or leave the room for a couple of minutes every time it happens.

Also, if she is still ready and rarin' to go after lots of physical exercise, it could be that she is so over-stimulated and wound up that she can't settle down. Adding in mental stimulation, like short 5 to 10 minute training sessions throughout the day, will wear her down just as much, if not more than half an hour of playing, without the hyped up feeling that goes with physical activity. Nosework, either formal training or just hiding treats around the house for her to find, or tossing a handful of kibble into the grass, is especially good for wearing a dog out.

I agree about the engaging part, LeoRose. I will give the nosework a try to see if itll help burn some energy!

 

[LeoRose]

This is a really good online class for formal nosework training. Fenzi Dog Sports Academy - N101M: NW101 - Introduction to Nosework However, even just having her hunt for treats either scattered around the house or yard, or from a puzzle toy will really work her brain. If you don't mind a bit of clean up, putting kibble into a cardboard box that has some crumpled up paper in it is good.

 

[Knute]

If I understand the Boxer breed, then they are a high energy breed.

She likely won't grow out of it for a few years. Your short path is to train her out of it using techniques outlined by Leorose, myself and I'm sure others will offer suggestions soon.

 

[boxer_brandi]

i appreciate the insight! I will definitely will give some of these a try.