Question:
I have a 5-year-old neutered miniature poodle. He is an aggressive dog and will, at times, attempt to attack and bite without any provocation. I enjoy having him around, but how can I get him to stop biting? Is there any medication for this?
L.W., Finley, ND Mar 14, 2010
Answer:
You have a canine delinquent on your hands. Dogs who bite the hands that feed them are socially maladjusted, and most often have a history of being overindulged as puppies, always having their own way and never learning any boundaries. In many respects, dogs like yours are like teenage delinquents, and the aggression displayed is a form of dominance behavior that can be rectified.
The old-school method of "a good whipping" will only make things worse. You need to consult with an animal-behavior therapist who will help show you how your reactions and treatment of your dog have contributed to the problem and will recommend appropriate behavior modification, reward training and possibly the "cradling" therapy detailed in my book "Dog Body, Dog Mind
." An experienced professional can make your dog into the good companion he ought to be.
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