subject: Housebreaking a Bichon Frise [print this page] Housebreaking a Bichon Frise Housebreaking a Bichon Frise
Would it surprise you if one day, your cute little toy dog, like a Bichon Frise, suddenly without warning bites you? Many bichon frise owners would. Bichon Frise biting problem behaviour for your pet is one kind of temperament problem which can be a common thing for dogs, so you must not worry too much but instead looks for ways to fix it.
A bichon frise is a cute and lovable dog, why would these type of dog bite? Teething is one common reason for this specially if you gotton your bichon as a puppy. Some puppies get so irritated by the teeth erupting from their gums, so that they have a tendency to bite AND gnaw at anything and everything, including your hand. Take note though that the main difference between Bichon Frise biting and teething is that your dog will not just bite; they will also gnaw. When this happens, simply tell them "No!" firmly and give them a strong teething bone or toy.
Now if the bite is accompanied by signs of aggression - including growling or barking, and the Bichon's assuming a defensive stance with ears flat to the sides of the head, teeth bared, and legs spread in preparedness to flee or attack - your dog may have temperament problems.
Bichons suffering from separation anxiety may bite their owners just to get their attention. In cases of dogs that have joined their owners to a new home, they may get so anxious and agitated by the sudden change in surroundings that they would bite at any sign of aggression.
Biting is a behavior that you will need to anticipate in rescued Bichons. Some of these pets come from deplorable conditions such as puppy mills, where they had to compete with other dogs for food and other staples. Others have had cruel owners, who would yell or even beat them. Depending upon the case, Bichons consider the act of biting as a means of self-defense as well as protecting their territories.
Aggressive Bichons Frise will require more patience and understanding from you. Always sooth you pet with a calm and soft voice whenever your bichon growls at you. Never pat it on the head as this will make it easier for them to bite you. Instead, rub their back gently. If your dog snaps at you or even actually bites you, again, give them a firm "No!". Never lash out at them in anger. If the dog is clamped to your hand, rub its back reassuringly and carefully pry its jaws open to release your hand. Once your hand is free, you must repeat the word "No!" and shake your head at them so that they would know that this is not a behavior that you tolerate.
If all attempts to soothe biting Bichons Frise fail, it may be necessary to have your dog brought to a kennel trainer. He or she has the expertise to apply behavioral modification techniques to curb Bichon Frise biting behaviors. You can make inquiries on your local ads or with animal welfares groups in you area if you really want to find one or you can use the internet.