mondayblues
Posted : 6/5/2006 12:27:07 AM
Does she try to bite you only when you are trying to pet her? What is her body language like during these moments? Is it stiff and accompanied by growling? Or is it more playful, with a wagging tail and some snorts and muted growls? I used to think my dog was trying to bite me whenever I was giving her a belly rub, but it turned out she was only being playful.
If it is nipping and not biting (which are two very different things), then this is completely normal puppy behavior. When she begins mouthing you, replace your hand with a chew toy then praise her for diverting her nipping onto the toy. Or yelp "OW!", walk away and ignore her for a few minutes. Do this every time she nips.
If it is really biting, your puppy could be developing dominant behavior or could dislike the way you pet her. Some dogs don't like being petted on the head, especially when a human's hand "looms" above their face. They think you might hurt them. Try patting from the side and in other areas like the chest, back or shoulders.
Good luck!