My small dog nips people's ankles. How do I stop this behavior?

Question

My small dog nips and bite's at people's ankles how can I stop him. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 9 months and 28 days old | 20 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

It could be that Littleboy is nipping at people's ankles out of fear or frustration, and this type of biting can indicate problems with aggression. If he's looking stiff, pulling back his mouth to show his teeth, and has tension in his face, then Littleboy's biting is aggressive and not playful. In that case, I'd recommend having him seen by a professional behavioral expert. Aggression is a difficult and dangerous behavior to train, and that's best left to a professional for safety reasons. I'd speak to your vet about a referral to one. If Littleboy's body and face is relaxed and there's no tension in his body, then he is playing. This behavior you can work with him at home. I will give you a link to the ASPCA's page that gives details on how to train a dog with play biting: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/mouthing-nipping-and-play-biting-adult-dogs

My small dog nips people's ankles. How do I stop this behavior?

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