almost 9 month old biting still

[Connie S.]

Our almost 9 month old boxer, Dolly, has developed a bad habit that I've never experienced with our other boxers (Maybe I have a bout of amnesia??) However, she awakens every morning almost like clockwork at 5am. After she is taken out we go back to bed. She might lie still for a minute or so or do her "toilette" as I call it and then it's like OK everybody, out of bed! She stomps, paws and bites until we can't stand it any longer. She's getting bigger (now is a little over 50 lbs.)and stronger than I remember any of our other dogs. We've tried to give her a time out in her crate (she does sleep with us which I know is a big no no) but after letting her out after a few minutes, she goes right back to this behavior. Otherwise, she's a really nice dog...great with our 18 month old granddaughter. I kind of wish we were 3 feet tall....maybe she'd treat us better!
Any help out there...suggestions?

 

[Scorpio]

I don't think sleeping with you is a no no, a lot of members here sleep with their dogs! It sounds like Dolly is just ready to get up and play and wants all your attention!! cud you put her somewhere else where she cud play on her own or outside? she doesn't understand maybe that you want to go back to sleep or maybe try having her sleep somewhere else from the beginning!I am no expert maybe someone else may have some suggestions!

 

[Tulsa-Dan]

She has you trained very well indeed.

You must IGNORE the dog when she is trying to get your attention in this way. By giving in, even eventually, she has won. Dogs want attention, good or bad doesn't matter to them, they just want attention from you.

I suggest getting a copy of "The Dog Listener" and adhereing to the method in Jan Fennell's book. It will help you communicate with your dog and teach it that this behavior is not acceptable and teach you how to properly, safely and effectively deal with these issues.

Good luck.