Jack Russell behaviour.

[Gazza61]

We have a 3 year old Jack Russell who is very loving and well-behaved apart from one thing. Whenever I try to leave the house he barks like crazy and snaps at my legs. On a couple of occasions he has actually bitten me. He doesn't do this to anyone else - either family or visitors which I find very odd. We have 3 other dogs - a Labrador and 2 other Jack Russells - who do not behave in this way. However, if they are around when I am trying to exit the house he will snap at them also. I am wondering if this is a "dominance thing" - he is trying to exert his authority. He definitely thinks he is the pack leader in the household. Has anyone any ideas on how I can correct this behaviour as I am not sure I fully understand why he is doing it.

[Oiverbotel]

I have a wonderful JR and have had him from birth. Whilst Ive never had this problem the lady who gave me my dog had a similar situation with one of hers. She told me that the best way to stop the behaviour is each time you're leaving, hold your hand just above the dog (so as to get his attention) and say firmly in a deep voice 'no!' Eventually, he will catch on that he's to not do this. As my dog got older he developed a fondness for my slippers and at night when I'd go upstairs he would decide that my arrival at the top step was an invitation for him to attack my slippers. I practised what my friend taught me and it worked! So it may work for you. If you don't have success, try asking the people at: http://www.jack-russell-terrier.co.uk/ They may have a collective answer. Best of luck!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMTA-NMmUBc

The Venerable Mr. Piddles