Aggressive Rescued Labradoodle Puppy

by Flora

One week ago yesterday I adopted a 9 week old labradoodle, Maci. She weighed about twelve pounds. Within a day or two we noticed that she would clamp down when playing. Her puppy teeth really hurt. This is concerning because I have twin boys who are almost 5 years old. My one son, Max, has been interested in walking, brushing and feeding the pup. My other son, Owen, has not had interest beyond playing and petting.

At first we tried replacing bites with toys, which we have plenty of, but she'll switch to a hand or pants quickly. Even when we are not playing Maci wants to bite pants and legs.

We met a dog trainer in the park. We took her card and she made a house call a few days later. She is concerned, too. She showed me how to hold the dog either by its lower or upper jaw or behind the dogs neck just near her ears. She was surprised how long it took to get Maci to submit and calm down. I have been trying this but I'm not too good at it and feel myself getting too angry at her aggression. Part of me thinks that it is making her more aggressive. I have been able to get her to sit then go down on command this does seem to get her out of the aggressive mode temporarily. She then waits for a treat. When she stays calm a give her another.

She is not possessive around food or if you try to take something from her. She loves other dogs and people and actively tries to get to them and play when she sees them.

I'd appreciate advice on which method to use when she begins to bite. Holding her down with seems to incite her anger more of just seperation and a big No and sit then down.

Thanks, Flora