We have a Jack Russell Terrier mix (probably heeler) who loves to mouth and bite. She appears to become even more aggressive within an hour of feeding. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to cure her of this?

If you are absolutely certain the "aggression" occurs within an hour of feeding, then I would certainly consider a change of diet - looking out for additives, colourings, too much protein, etc. HOpefully others will have more advice for you regarding this.

I have to say it is natural for pups to mouth and bite, (esp. the sort of mix you have) but she is treating you like a littermate and thinks rough and tumble, nipping etc, is fine.

She needs to basically learn new rules and what is acceptable to you, in her new pack. I suspect the "ouch" route will make her worse, more exciteable, but try it first. Shriek with pain when she nips, then calmly leave the room.

Pups really hate this, as it is against everything they want. If you prefer, put HER outside the room, and if this gets into a game then keep a long lead on her to manoueuvere (sp.!) her without getting into more excitement :) JRemain calm throughout except for the yelp.

Leave her out of the room for only a short time, say 2 minutes. Then back in the room, if she starts again repeat, and so on.

YOu could also try re-directing her excitement onto toys.

To check if it is the food, I am presuming you feed her several times a day, and she is mouthy after each meal? If it is only the evening meal, almost all pups get a "mad half hour" in the evenings, I have never known one that doesn't.

Anyway good luck, i bet she is a real character :)

LIndsay