Chihuahua Biting the Family

Question

Dr. Baeyens,

I have a longhaired Chihuahua that was 2 yrs. old July 1, 2007. Sammy is very lovable most of the time. Being raised with friends dropping in to visit us quite often he loves people. My problem is, in the last 6 months he has bitten me three times, my husband three times, my son twice and my daughter-in-law once (they live with us). He doesn't growl or show any signs that he doesn't like something he just bites and growls at the same time. Now, he has never broken skin but there are teeth marks and redness, it does hurt.

As a young child I was attacked by a large growling dog and still fear most dogs, I can't give Sammy the attention he wants because of this. Do you have any suggestions on how to correct this problem? Trainers that I've talked to say he's too old now to help. Any help you can share will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Emily Morris

Answer

Dear Pet Owner,

Sammy is not too old to be helped. He needs to see a trainer that works with a dog behavior specialist (there are veterinarians who specialize in animal behavior). If he is not neutered that also needs to be done. He is trying to be the alpha dog in the house-and he is not-you are!! Chavez, the dog whisperer, also has some good books out that may help you.

Dr. Baeyens