Help Needed! Behavior is changing

[Fionasmom]

After my Bully passed away of 5 years, the grieving was horrible. Three months later I had the opportunity to buy a 6 month old bully asap. She was from breeders who were young and unexperienced. They needed to get rid of her as they could only take 2 dogs to their new home. Fiona was from a litter of 8 and no one wanted her so they kept her. She was crated most of her life in the garage. When I got her she was loving, timid and was afraid of sounds and new objects. As soon as I introduced her to new things, she was fine and remembered them. I socialized her quickly and brought her to work with me everyday where I run a youth theatre. She was also socialized with other dogs too. After 3 months, she seems have taken on a new personality. She barks at everything. The hairdryer, the coffee grinder, new people. She never reacted like that before, she would just cower under me until I introduced her to the object. She also wants to play 24/7, but nips at your fingers in a playful way, to get you to play with her. I bought her lots of chewing toys. Any suggestions for excess barking and nipping at our fingers? Thank you,

 

[JAKEISGREAT]

Well...I think she is just finding herself. She is acting out puppy behavior, which is perfectly normal. Except as an older pup..she can do damage! I would keep her on a leash ànd immediately correct any behavior you see that is troubling. A small pull on the leash along with your "no" word. Repetition and consistency. She will catch on.

 

[sweetpeasmom2008]

Sounds to me like she is doing what a puppy would and just trying to figure out where she stands in you pack. I think she will settle down over time.

 

[2BullyMama]

Well...I think she is just finding herself. She is acting out puppy behavior, which is perfectly normal. Except as an older pup..she can do damage! I would keep her on a leash ànd immediately correct any behavior you see that is troubling. A small pull on the leash along with your "no" word. Repetition and consistency. She will catch on.

^^^ agreed

 

[Vicaroo1000]

I agree with everyone in the thread. Thank god you rescued her from those horrible idiots. Would you mind PMing me their address? I have a 'gift' I'd like them to have.

Even though Fiona is six months old, pretend she's just a wee pup and do all the things you would in training a wee one. Patience and gentle - but strong -- leadership is going to help this insecure girl! She's going to bloom into an amazing dog!