Normal Puppy Behavior

[?] Keep Current With Our Bichon Frises Updates

Product Reviews

Bichon Frise Breed

Bichon Frise Puppies

Bichon Frise Care

Bichon Frise Health

Training

Bichon Frise Shopping

YOUR Turn...

And More...

Normal Puppy Behavior

by Tonie Mixer
(De Pere, WI, USA)

We have an 8 week old bichon puppy. She seems very hyper and aggressive towards our 7 year old bichon and chases her around the house. The older one runs away.

Today she advanced towards my husband's face and barked. Is this normal puppy behavior or do we need to be concerned?

When should we enroll her in a puppy obedience or socialization class?

Thank you for your advice.

Sincerely,
Tonie Mixer

Comments for
Normal Puppy Behavior

Average Rating

Click here to add your own comments

Rating

Aggressive Puppy Behavior
by: Linda

It's hard to say, Tonie, if your Bichon puppy has a dog behavior problem.

Here's why. Bichon Frises tend to be very energetic at times. And Bichon puppies, just like other puppies, are much more active than adult dogs.

But it gets even more complicated. When you have 2 dogs, there are more factors that come into play. In a pack, dogs (or wolves, their ancestors) compete for position within the pack.

In addition, your new puppy may be an alpha female (Your vet should be able to tell you if she is).

If this is the case, she is showing behavior that says that she want to be top dog--and in charge of your household. I don't like it that your puppy was aggressive toward your husband.

Here are some suggestions:

As you suggested, start socializing her by introducing her to new people, places and other dogs. Keep it simple. One person or dog at a time until she gets used to new people and dogs (or cats).
Have your vet evaluate her.
Don't play rough with your puppy. Playing rough games or roughhousing encourages aggressive behavior.
Catch your puppy doing something right, and praise her. This will encourage good behavior.
You may want to consider doing some things, ONLY with your new puppy (excluding your older dog). Sometimes, if another dog is present, the pecking order of the pack comes into play.
A dog training program is a good idea. And it's never too early to get started with simple dog training.

Hope this helps. Good luck with your new puppy!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Dog Questions

Become a Fan of All About Bichon Frises on Facebook

Looking for reliable pet services
for your Bichon?

Normal Puppy Behavior

Comments for Normal Puppy Behavior

Comments for
Normal Puppy Behavior