@Gigi said in Newbie, I think I have a Basenji Mix?:
actually biting, showing teeth and growling first and following through.
To me that is worrisome and must stop, for her safety as well as yours. This does not sound like ordinary puppy nipping that will disappear in time. I agree with Debra, crating isn't going to fix this and can make her resent the crate. Under what circumstances does she bite? In play, or in anger because you have denied her something? If it's an attempt at play initiation, of course dogs frequently growl at each other and it isn't a threat, but if she is objecting to something or trying to get her own way, that needs to be addressed. If she is biting in play sessions, quit playing with her! You do not want to do anything that triggers the behaviour. If it is random, then it's a lot harder to address, but try to spot a pattern. If it is when you deny her something she wants, I think I would leave a leash on her so that I could gain control whenever I suspect there may be an incident. Don't allow her to keep reinforcing herself with the behaviour, i.e. it shouldn't ever get her what she wants, be that a response from you that she is looking for, or food, or a toy, or to be left alone. Whatever the motivation, she needs to learn that biting will not profit her, but gentleness will gain instant reward.
My approach with a Basenji sized dog has always been the "bear hug", as in immobilize the animal and don't allow her freedom until she quits the unwanted behaviour. Don't hurt her, but let her know she will not be released until she stops trying to bite and stops struggling. I realize this won't work unless you are confident and prepared to take a bite or two if you must, because allowing her to go before she quits it will only intensify the behaviour. For that reason, it may be best to seek out a trainer or behaviorist to assist you, preferably someone who will come to your house and observe what is going on, because context is so important.
If you were very lucky and knew someone with a large breed but gentle dog, sometimes letting the other dog teach discipline will work (my breeder friend has a Great Pyrenees that will basically sit on the offender until the bad behaviour ends). I agree with Debra that missing the early socialization with mom and siblings may be one reason that she isn't inhibited from biting.
Oh, and BTW, if I ignore her ears and tail, she looks to me like she could be part Basenji, particularly if her vocalizations support it, and it sounds like they do! Best of luck to you.
