[getbent]

Originally Posted by blacklinefish

Sometimes the "right attention" only makes sense to animals, and not to people. Some dogs really dig the "pack" thing, and sometimes you have to get to their level. This could even mean getting down on the floor with them. If you trust the dog, then you could establish dominance by getting in the dog's face more.

For problem situations, I've even physically pinned the dog and got right in their face. Just stared it down until it looks away. In a pack situation, the dominant dog sometimes puts its mouth around the neck of the subordinates. They know it can kill them, and that strengthens dominance.

I use to have all kinds of problems with my dog's brother. He lives in another state, and did not respect me (growled, cowered, even bit me and drew blood). I did all of the above and it was just not working. So, I took it outside and I urinated on it. I am not kidding, and that changed everything. When we visit, that dog comes right up to me to get me to greet me. Hasn't bit me since!

I'm not sure if this helps with chewing, but maybe the dog would be happier if it was 100% confident that it was in your pack. So, get in its face a little more.

--gh

Yep. I know what you are talking about...