Jack Russell Terrier problems with possessiveness. ?

Question

Alright, here's the skinny. I moved into my aunt and uncle's house 6 weeks ago. They have a J.R.T that they have spoiled rotten for the last 3 1/2 years. I have worked on training her, and have achieved some success. Despite this, she has attempted to bite me over 25 times, and today in fact, attempted 4 times, and the last two were lunges towards my neck. Now, not only does this frighten me, but it makes me uncomfortable living here. We can't afford to hire a professional dog trainer, and the dog doesn't seem to be responding well to assertive dominance, and often responds with violence. Is there something I can do here?

Answer 1

hi,

Developed in England some 200 years ago to hunt foxes, the Jack Russell Terrier, also known as the Parson Russell Terrier, is a lively, independent, and clever little dog. He's charming and affectionate, but he's also a handful to train and manage. For experienced dog owners only!

here's more info:

http://dogtime.com/jack-russell-terrier....

hope this helps.

Answer 2

I have a JRT, she's only 3 months though

She goes doggy training, it helps her socialise and stuff, she loves it.

Now you said you can't afford obidience training. I would reconsider it though. It will help with social skills and help with his aggression

Don't forget, be consistent!

Answer 3

She may feel like you are intruding in her space.

What are your aunt and uncle doing about it? There are some things to look for the next time she lunges at you:

1.) Is auntie or uncle in the room?-If aunt and uncle being in the room cause this behavior, try leaving the room with them and bonding with Ms. J alone. Always have her favorite treat available and call her to you. When she comes, treat her. When she lunges at you at whatever time, give a firm "No." Do not look her in the eyes as this tells her you are challenging her. Turn your back, and walk away slowly. Another technique I used before is the "pin" technique. If you are stronger than her and can keep her from biting you and you run out of options, I would suggest showing her who the boss is. When she lunges, try to grab her by the scruff, and pin her and tell her no until she stops struggling. This can be difficult, but in the pack, the leader shows dominance in more harsh ways like nipping. The submissive one turns on their back and the dominant one stands over the submissive.

2.) Are you near something she may seem to be guarding?-If you are too close to something that she may consider a "pup" try not to get close to it. My dog adopted a little stuffed squirrel my children had, and my other dog could not get near it.

3.) Have you ever scared her or did you walk up on her?-If you have ever done either of these, try to make noise any time you are approaching her so she will not feel threatened by your presence in the house.

4.) When is she nicest to you?-Finding out when she is nicest to you is the best way to know when you can actually bond with her the most, and get her to want your company. You stated that they spoiled her, so that may be the case. She may just feel like you are imposing. Either way, something has to give and the lunging, that is not good social behavior for a dog. Have you tried exercise? Exercise can help release pent up energy as well, and put her in a calmer state of mind to be at ease with the situations around her.

I hope this helps you while you are trying to find out where you fit in at your aunt's and uncle's home. God bless.