Bailey Bites

LennoLenno
edited September 2008 in Shiba Inu (柴犬)
My 11 month old Shiba Bailey keeps trying to bite me, it starts when we are playing, and she gets too into it, and she starts showing me her teeth, and lunging for me, but she's not trying to be aggressive or anything, I have just never seen this behaviour from a dog before. Is it just playful, and is it normal?? I think it would be with younger puppies, but she is almost a year, and I don't think she should be doing it anymore. I am trying to correct her, I was thinking of using a coke can full of pennies and shaking it, that's what I have read online. I was just curious if anyone has any experience with this and would be able to offer some advice.

Comments

  • brandon_wbrandon_w
    edited November -1
    Biting is pretty common, even at 11 months. My Shiba was really mouthy when playing until he was two or so.

    If the biting is getting out of control, stop the play session and walk away. You could also try a sharp, loud, YELP. Rubbing my hands down with mouthwash before play helped a bit too. Also try playing with a toy, and if Bailey goes to bite on your hand, shove the toy in her mouth.
  • dlrobertsdlroberts
    edited September 2008
    The biting while playing is pretty normal behavior (assuming she doesn't use any pressure), but should be discouraged for at least two reasons: 1) visitors and other people she meets may not be tolerant of it and it could cause a problem; and 2) it can very easily escalate into what you describe. Showing teeth and lunging can be a red flag. Shibas can be pretty hectic in their play and the odds are that it is probably just that. On the other hand though, it could be aggression which would be a pretty big concern. The body language that would allow you to differentiate between these two is very subtle and would be very tough for any of us to recognize over the internet (even with a video).

    I think Jen (tsukitsune) has used the pennies in a can with some success. That is only part of the equation though. The pennies will make a noise that will startle Bailey, but then it is your job to redirect her to something positive. You can give her a toy that is ok to chew on, or you can do some obedience training, or you can just walk away and end the play session.

    ---

    edit: Looks like Brandon and I are of the same mind on this. :-)
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