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Sunvally · Aug 4, 2010, 05:37 PM

We are fostering a Rhodesian/Pit female, who is now 8 months old. She's done very well with her training EXCEPT that she suddenly will leap up and bite at a person's face. We had her temperament tested and when she did this they told us we should euthenize the dog! I've been reading about other dogs that do this and I'm now confused as to who to listen to.

Fr_Chuck · Aug 4, 2010, 06:21 PM

If a dog leaped at my face, you would not have to worry about having it euthenized. It would be the last face it ever leaped at right then.

KISS · Aug 4, 2010, 06:25 PM

A neighbor's German Shepard pup who is in training to hopefully become a service dog does the same thing. You can tell it's a playful bite.

Jumping is NOT allowed. Unfortunately, that's the way it is.

Now, I'm not kidding you here. She's a pup. She needs to know it hurts. Bite the dog back with the NO.

Aurora_Bell · Aug 4, 2010, 07:29 PM

Human aggression is by far the most dangerous types of aggression. Is she playing or being aggressive? Especially with the pittie breed, you may have a potential law suite on your hands. I HIGHLY suggest seeking a professional behaviorist and obedience trainer, as well as keeping her away from small children and other animals. No dog parks or other populated areas.

What are you doing to correct this behavior?

The two most important commands your dog needs to learn right now are SIT and OFF. When your dog jumps, you need to say NO and with out getting angry and punishing him, simply turn away from the dog and ignore him. By doing this you will let him know that his behavior is not acceptable.

If this will not work, try gently putting up your knee to protect yourself ( not kneeing him, but only raising you knee) while saying no in a firm manner. Do not make a big issue out of it, but just enough to let the dog know that this type of dog jumping is not acceptable behavior. After he is on the ground, praise him and pet him to let him know he has done well by staying on the ground.

shazamataz · Aug 4, 2010, 08:58 PM

Is it serious biting or play biting.
HUGE difference.

If the dog is jumping up, snarling, growling and is serious about ripping someone's face off then that is not good.

If the dog is jumping up and going to bit as a suggestion of "play with me" (dogs play with their teeth after all) then we can suggest some ways to help with this behaviour.