Dog Community

Maternal Aggression? She bit me twice!

Posted : 6/19/2006 2:19:20 AM

Dam is JRT with three day old pups. She and the pups are in a completely seperate room from other dogs. However, when she wishes to come out for a brief walk, or to go outside, I let her.

With her pups safely in there bed, and behind a closed door, she has lashed out unprevoked at one of our dogs twice now. The first lunge at him was blocked by my right arm, and I sustained a painful "nip." The second occasion (same other dog, still unprovoked) was blocked by my left arm; and, this time I have a substantial puncture wound on the base of my hand.

Is this maternal aggression? The pups are safe in a completely different room when she does this. This dog she is lashing out at, for no apparent reason, was her best play buddy up until two days prior to whelping.

Any advice please? Obviously, I've taken to keeping him out of her way when she needs out of the room for a bit. But, should I expect this new hatred of hers to last, or to subside eventually?

spiritdogs

Posted : 6/20/2006 5:31:02 AM

Is this maternal aggression?

Sure sounds like it. We have some breeders on the site who may be along to help out in letting you know what to expect. If not, contact the breeder you got your own bitch from, who may have additional info on how the dogs in his/her lines have reacted postpartum.

Mic

Posted : 6/20/2006 8:44:22 AM

she has lashed out unprevoked at one of our dogs twice now.

I assure you the bite was provoked, but often time the signals are very obscure.

Normally, things go back to the way they were, but to be on the safe side I would start working with them both. A trip to the vet may also be in order.

amstaffy

Posted : 6/20/2006 8:53:29 AM

It could very well be the pups even if they are safe in another room. Keep in mind that Momma smells like she did when she was in heat so her "Buddy" might be feeling more like a stud and you're missing it.

Now you know, we need some pics of those babies!