Re: [PyrNet-L] Chat: Need Advice!

[JSwingen@aol.com]

I will try to be short and concise and give all the pertinent facts.  
We have a female, Neria, GP , 11 week old puppy.  She came from a reputable 
breeder, good parents, no temperament problems. We have had her exactly one 
week today.  She has bonded wonderfully with the family.  The kids have been 
great about walking her and playing with her. 

The problem, or I guess concern at this point, is Neria snapped at my 14 year 
old daughter last night when Jorli told her "No" for biting (puppy biting) 
her.  The puppy actually growled and lunged.  I was shocked and grabbed her 
muzzle and yelled "No" in a very loud voice and that was the end of it.  My 9 
year old had told me earlier that she didn't like Neria because she snapped 
at her when she told her "no."  I was skeptical and told her she was probably 
just playing, but we'd monitor the situation.  I have to say I am very 
concerned.  An 11 week old puppy doesn't do serious damage, a 90 pound adult 
does.

I have had dogs all my life and treasure their companionship.  I am also well 
aware that the adult is a direct result of how you treat it and train it as a 
puppy.  We read so much about the breed before we got the puppy and felt 
prepared.  I want to do this right.  We already LOVE this puppy.  She is such 
a delight.  And always happy and wagging and loving.  How should we handle 
this?  How should we discipline her?  Is this just a chance thing that 
probably will never happen again?

She had not been an inside dog.
She was brought up with small children around.
My children do not poke, pull, pinch or provoke in any way.
Neria is very loving and we don't spank her or strike her in any way.
The older dog, the Sheltie, has modeled the exact behavior she exhibited when 
she insisted on sharing his food.  I don't know if they mimic behavior.
She is extremely intelligent, but does seem rather stubborn at times.
I did wonder if frustration could be a problem.  Maybe everything seems like 
"no."  I have told the kids to say "down" if that is what they want not "NO" 
all the time.
She is eager to please.
She does not react that way with me.(adult mom) I guess it could be pecking 
order issue, but that would be contrary to the breed wouldn't it?

One other question, I did not know that GPs love water.  Neria delights in 
sitting in her water dish, playing with her water, discovered the bathtub and 
loves to jump in and have the faucet turned on so she can drink.  Are GPs 
water lovers?

Please Help, we love this puppy and are looking forward to many years of love 
and companionship.  But, we need to get this right NOW.
Judi Swingen