The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is an energetic, intelligent, and often sensitive breed. While Shelties are known for their loving nature and strong bonding with their families, a Sheltie Puppy can sometimes exhibit a nipping or biting behavior. Understanding and addressing this behavior early on is crucial to ensuring your Sheltie Puppy grows into a well-mannered and balanced adult dog. This article will explore effective techniques to manage and reduce the biting tendencies of a Sheltie Puppy.
1. Understand Why a Sheltie Puppy Bites
To address the issue, one must first understand why a Sheltie Puppy might bite:
- Herding Instinct: The Sheltie breed has a strong herding instinct. This can sometimes translate to nipping at heels or hands, especially during play. It’s a Sheltie Puppy’s way of ‘herding’ you!
- Teething: Like all puppies, a Sheltie Puppy will go through a teething phase, leading them to chew and bite to alleviate gum discomfort.
- Exploration & Curiosity: Puppies, including the Sheltie Puppy, explore their environment using their mouths. This can sometimes lead to inadvertent bites.
2. Chew Toys to the Rescue
Invest in a range of chew toys specifically designed for teething puppies. By redirecting the Sheltie Puppy’s biting towards these toys, you not only offer relief but also teach them what’s acceptable to bite.
3. Teach Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition training is teaching a Sheltie Puppy to control the force of its bite. Whenever your Sheltie Puppy bites too hard during play, yelp or say “ouch” loudly to startle them. Stop playing momentarily. The Sheltie Puppy will soon learn that rough play leads to the end of fun.
4. Consistency is Key
Every member of the household should adopt the same strategy with the Sheltie Puppy. Mixed messages can confuse the Sheltie Puppy, making the training less effective.
5. Socialize Early
Early socialization is a crucial aspect of raising a balanced Sheltie Puppy. Introduce your Sheltie Puppy to various environments, people, and other animals. The more experiences a Sheltie Puppy has, the less likely they are to react with fear or aggression, which can lead to biting.
6. Redirection Technique
When you see your Sheltie Puppy is about to bite, try redirecting their attention to a toy or a treat. This proactive step teaches the Sheltie Puppy appropriate behaviors and discourages unwanted ones.
7. The “Time-Out” Approach
If the Sheltie Puppy exhibits aggressive or incessant biting, a brief “time-out” might be effective. Removing them from play emphasizes that aggressive behavior isn’t rewarded.
8. Reward Positive Behavior
Whenever your Sheltie Puppy displays desired behavior, reward them. Whether through treats, praise, or petting, positive reinforcement always works wonders.
9. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you feel overwhelmed or if your Sheltie Puppy’s biting behavior seems aggressive, consider consulting a professional dog trainer. They can provide tailored solutions for your Sheltie Puppy’s unique needs.
10. Puppy Training Classes
Enrolling your Sheltie Puppy in a reputable training class can make a significant difference. Here, they will learn essential commands and interact with other puppies, further teaching them bite inhibition.
An Online Dog Training Course Can Help Your Sheltie to Stop Biting
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Perfect Obedience” Course
The Perfect Dog Obedience Bundle is an online dog training program designed to help dog owners achieve well-behaved pets. The comprehensive course covers basic obedience, biting, loose leash walking, and includes bonus mini-courses on training habits and rewards, stopping jumping, and separation anxiety solutions. With lifetime access to expert trainers for personalized feedback and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this course aims to provide effective, accessible training for a variety of dog behavior issues.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just an obedience course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
Conclusion
A Sheltie Puppy is a joy to have around – their energy, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them wonderful companions. But, like all puppies, they need guidance. Addressing biting tendencies early on ensures a harmonious relationship between you and your Sheltie Puppy. With patience, consistency, and understanding, you can guide your Sheltie Puppy away from nipping habits, helping them grow into the well-behaved and loving adult Sheltie they’re destined to be. Remember, your Sheltie Puppy looks up to you – provide them with the right direction, and they’ll follow diligently.
Toledo, United States.
