Should I be concerned?

[Scott]

I have already looked through a lot of the biting/nipping threads and have insured myself that Toby's behavior regarding that is normal. He was sixteen weeks this weekend and I cannot wait for adult teeth.

But....

We brought him to the groomer the other day to have a bath and get him used to the clippers, so he would not be scared for his first haircut in a few months. We noticed we he came home he was much more protective of anything he was chewing. He bit my wife, daughter, and myself (3 separate occasions) after trying to take away one of my sons toys he was chewing to pieces. He had never displayed any growling or anger prior to the groomer appointment. I mentioned this to the vet yesterday during his rabies vaccination, and she seemed concerned. She instructed me to ensure that Toby knows he is not the alpha dog, and seek training immediately. Has anyone had a similar situation, or can anyone provide some advice?

Thanks in advance.

[Cathy w/Shiloh~Cody]

Its always a good idea to get your dog into obedience classes when their young, and the more training the better

when they get older. It just makes for a better socialiized dog in the future. Did you see the groomer work with your puppy? or did you have to leave him for grooming? I would be concerned at the attitude change especially since you are tying it

to that visit. If you were not there to see all that happened, if it were me I would try a different groomer next time. Maybe its nothing or maybe the groomer was to rough with your dog and that caused this reaction. He is being influenced by everything at this age. Good luck-sounds like you care a lot and will get it worked out for you and your family!

[Pat and Traveler]

I'd agree with the vet--this isn't just play-nipping and should be dealt with ASAP.  Trav went through what I think was a normal teenage nipping stage, and really hated it when I just turned my back and ignored him, or put him in a time-out in a different room.  That's not really what you're dealing with though--Toby is guarding and biting and that would really worry me!