Okay, so today I took Fergie to her first vet visit. She is not due for another vaccination until next week, but I wanted to have at least one positive vet visit under her belt. Well - the best laid plans...... When the vet went to exam her teeth - Fergie got snippy with her. The attending vet - who is not the vet we have been using for the last 9 years, i.e. usual vet - had Fergie in a alpha dog roll/sleeper hold so fast it would raise Caesar Millans eyebrows. She looked at her wrist watch and held her there until Fergie laid down submissively, and then proceeded to tell me what a strong willed dog I had on my hands and that we were in need of immediate training.
Now - I know biting should not be tolerated. We have three young children who have been instructed to not tolerate it (which was pointless because they are drama queens and Fergie gets the point when she nips because they scream wildly and just about dial 911;)), My husband and I do the loud ouch, say no, stop play/affection and redirect with chew toy. This plan worked with our 9 year old corgi and Fergie in comparison is really quite obedient for a 10 week pup.
Am I being naive in thinking that Fergie is not the first dog to not enjoy her teeth being examined, and that this is an area as an owner I need to work with her on, but maybe not not put her on the "aggressive list" just yet.
Just wondering what others think. I would love your input.