Ahhh...What a beautiful Dobermann you have! I love Dobies. Obedience classes are a must, and I'm thrilled you've signed up for them already.

I've worked with a few dobies, and I know they like to see a reaction when they do something. In your case, Gracie nipped you a bit and you yelped and probably jerked your leg. Each successing nip, you probably jerked your leg back more or shifted around. By doing so, you can relate your situation to that of a cat and a ball of yarn. Every time the animals nips or strikes an object, it moves around enticing the animal. I'm afraid Gracie thinks it's a game One particular Dobie that I know will jump on you to get a reaction. He gets this look in his eyes- like a stale stare- before he pounces. When I see that look, I turn towards a corner and fold my arms. He jumps, but there's no reaction. Within half an hour, he did not try to jump no matter how excited he got. Dobies are wickedly smart, and I know Gracie will see that nipping is no fun as soon as you stop giving her a reaction. I second the shin guards. With many large breeds, I find that physical force entices the animal further and doesn't help much. That's why I'd say No to giving a whack on the nose. The squirt bottle might work...