Expert: christine - 8/25/2008

Question
I have recently inheirited a 9 month old Border Collie/ Great Pyrenees female dog (My mother and father bought her and realized she was too much for them to handle). She is very energetic, housetrained, can sit on command. We have two other dogs (female German Shep mix and a Male Giant Schnauzer who are very well behaved-- does not jump, nip, sits, lays on command...etc). Sometimes the new dog. Ally, likes to nip at our heals. Is there a way to stop this behavior? My other two dogs never had this characteristic.
Also, what is a sure way to stop the jumping up? I have a 6 month old baby and alot of the times I am carrying her when the dog jumps up. I would like to change this also if possible.

Thank you for the help!

Answer
Well i have a border collie as well. And she also jumps up on me too.I think the jumping is just telling you she wants to play or she needs to go the bathroom .I think when she starts her jumping to pay attention to her. Border collies need at least 6 hours of play time a day. I might suggest a runner for her so she is outside most of the time, and as for the nipping .Their is no sure way you can stop nipping .That behavior will eventually stop. good luck!;)