Hello, my name is Jill. I have a 2 year old apricot toy poodle named Monty. He is really the love of my life but I fear I may have to get rid of him. He bites quite a bit for no real reason. He may get into something he knows he shouldn't and when one of us tries to speak to him and retrieve whatever it is, he snaps or really bites to the point were he draws blood. Other times he just snaps if we are scratching his belly gently. He also attacks people and bites their legs when they are leaving the room. We give him a lot of love and a really great home and I don't know what to do about this. I had a trainer in when he was younger but not much came of it. I have also tried several techniques and different suggestions and nothing works well. I have even read books. A friend of a friend has a red toy who had this problem and their vet suggested either putting him down or removing his teeth. They chose the later but I feel these options are severe. Please can somebody help me?? I live in NY and I noticed there didn't seem to be a resue in my state. I really don't want to get rid of my baby but I don't know what else to do. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Jill

-- Anonymous, December 28, 2000

Answers

HI Jill, I'm very sorry to hear about your problems with Monty. This is indeed a serious issue. Firstly, there could be many reasons for Monty's behaviours. Have you contacted the breeder? I would urge you to do this FIRST! These folks take great care and responsibility for their puppies. A responsible breeder would WANT to know what is happening. Secondly, have you contacted your vet? Monty may be having pain or discomfort from something unseen which is causing the biting. What kind of food is he eating? Sometimes dogs are lacking, or getting too much of something. Has Monty ever been mistreated by someone? Do you have small children? A child might unknowingly hurt a toy poodle, or any small dog for that matter. At what age did you bring Monty home? If he was younger than 8-10 weeks, he may be "socially retarded" when it comes to proper behavior. So, you see, Jill, there are lots of reasons for strange dog behaviors and many avenues in which to travel to get help. I urge you to seek professional help. http://www.swdg.com/pca/usamap.htm This is PCA (poodle club of America) rescue site, and you might find some additional information there. I'm glad you found PSG and I hope you will join us. There are many people on the list who might be able to help you find the answers you are seeking. Not all toy poodles bite, so I especially hope you get help with Monty. Poodles are a wonderful breed and are a joy to co- exist with! Good luck!

-- Anonymous, December 28, 2000

Sorry for your problem. I've found the best trainers are the "K-9" certified trainers. If your pup doesn't have a physiological problem or an organic problem, perhaps a GOOD trainer is the trick. You send them away and they board with them. They are expensive ($1000 or so) but worth it. Don't get rid of him, nor pull his teeth. Exhaust your sources....I hope your problem has been fixed by now.

-- Anonymous, March 15, 2001