Dog Nips People Randomly

Question:

Two years ago my husband and I decided to keep our foster dog, Ellery (7 months). He proved to be a good companion for our rabbit and other rescue dog who has anxiety issues. About 6 months later Ellery began to randomly nip at people's fingers or legs, even puncturing a friend in the thigh after she'd been there for a half hour. Despite all this, he's great with kids and does not react when touched while eating.

Ellery is now 3 years old and randomly nips at people, whether he knows them or not, whether their visit is just beginning, in the middle, or they are leaving. His behavior does not seem malicious, but a form of excitement. He has never nipped my husband or myself. We can't seem to identify a pattern and are looking for way, other than a cloth muzzle, to eliminate this behavior. Thank you.

- Eleni

Answer:

Eleni,
I am sorry to hear you are having problems with your dog. Unfortunately nipping/biting is an unacceptable behavior, especially if it is breaking the skin. I don't see where you have any choice but to keep him isolated or muzzled when guests are present. You could try small stints of exposing him to people and rewarding him for not becoming too excited.

It would probably be a good idea to enlist the help of a professional trainer to help you with this problem, because it could eventually cause liability issues.

Good Luck!
Sara F. Jennen DVM