Once a dog bites.....

[lemongirl134]

First, thank you all for your wonderful caring responses! He is fixed. I didnt mention it,but the behavior didnt start until after we fixed him (im thinking male emasculation issues..hmmm... ) anyway, we are trying the NILIF program, but i think im just going to have to completely keep him out of the upstairs. 90% of the time,hes the sweetest little thing..im almost thinking that maybe a new place would be a good thing for him..so maybe we could train him not to be so possessive without so much having to break the behavior..i dont know if that makes any sense..but ive never had a problem dog before.

[bckrazy]

I would do NILIF at all times, buy good books from good trainers (link= http://4pawsu.com/bookstore.htm ), and keep him on-leash with a rolled or flat leather collar that fits snugly (allows room for 2 fingers). You HAVE TO be alpha and all members of the family must get involved. Having him on-leash when guests are expected will give you control and not risk getting bitten. If he starts acting up, just sharply pop the leash and tell him "quiet" or "leave it" or "wrong", or take him aside and have him watch you until he settles down. Obedience is really key, he needs to know these commands, he needs to know to "watch" and "off". Most importantly, leashing him to you will keep you in control of his biting and it'll give him more time to learn that you are in control. You also cannot give him an inch with any of this, as long as you're very consistent it should help. Maybe try another behaviorist - just one visit should give you LOTS of great tips.

[Camie Heuer]

You know the situation in your home regarding the dog better than anybody here,trust your instincts to guide you. Will the dog bite again?
Do you know your dogs personality well enough to make a solid decision?
I personallly can't say.

[labmomma]

I saw a segment dealing with that on National Geographic on "The Dog Whisperer" program. I can remember excactly how he solved it but it was almost the same identical problem. You may be able to look on the internet and find reference to that particular segment. In the meantime, I'll check around and see what I can find out.
Donna