please help with my puppy!

[BOBS DAD]

You definitely should not let your puppy continue with that behavior, but it is going to be hard for you. Hard... because basically, you have admitted that it "scares" you. This is too bad, because your puppy can sense your fear. YES... he sure can, and it only reinforces his behavior because realizes he is boss!!!

It is the Terrier bully in him that is driving this behavior. I agree with the pinning him down and holding him by the neck (juggler if you were another dog). Holding him like this until he submits is like telling him, "I could kill you if I wanted". When he submits and lies still he is saying, "OK... I get it, you are the top dog".

Try not to be afraid. Say things like, "NO", "NO" and snatch him up, pinning him down or holding his mouth closed with both hands. If he continues, put him in his crate or pen him off to himself. Keep reinforcing your dominance.

Good luck!!!

[binka_nugget]

It may be because of dominance issues.. or maybe it's just being a bratty puppy. Either way, NILIF should be used. NILIF (nothing in life is free) will allow the puppy to realize that everything good comes from the alpha.. you. All meals, all tummy rubs, all pats on the head, all treats, etc have to be earned (sit, down, etc).

On top of NILIF, let the puppy know that it is not an acceptable behavior. A quick, firm "No!" and placing the puppy back on the floor should solve the problem.

If the puppy continues to climb back on your lap and bark/growl at you, put it in it's crate, another room, anywhere that'll seperate the puppy from its "pack".

Good luck!

[Dorothy39]

Wow, I really enjoyed reading the responses about this Terrier Pup. All of you offered great advice. I tend to agree with the firm "no" when the puppy snaps, holding the dog firmly and addressing the issue as "the Alpha "

You guys are absolutley right!!!!!!