
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Indoor Pet Initiative lists these red flags in puppies:
Avoiding or hiding from people, places, or objects. This may indicate fear that could escalate into aggression as an adult.
Alarm barking, lunging, putting “hackles” up in response to people or animals. This is another indication of fear that could mean serious problems as an adult dog if not addressed while the dog is young.
Excessive mouthing specifically during physical handling. Puppies should use their mouths to explore the world, but hard biting, especially if accompanied by stiffening, growling, or snarling could indicate underlying fear or pain and should be evaluated.
Reluctance to “sit” or “down” during training. Pain, especially in the hips or elbows, can cause non-compliance to basic commands. Have the puppy examined to determine if there is an organic cause to his non-compliance. Anxiety is another cause of dogs not “obeying” commands (and is often labeled as stubbornness), and needs to be addressed appropriately.
Confinement problems. If the puppy will not eat while confined, has excessive vocalizations in his crate, and/or will not settle in his crate, he may be showing early signs of separation or confinement anxiety.
Repeated urination or bowel movements in appropriately-sized crate. This can be an indication of urinary or gastrointestinal infection, inappropriate crate training prior to the owner getting him, or separation anxiety.
More detailed information about these warning signs can be found at The Indoor Pet Initiative as well as valuable
information for dog owners in general. I strongly recommend that if you suspect a problem please contact me, your veterinarian or The Ohio State University Veterinary behavior department. We can help you decide on an appropriate course of action. Puppyhood last a very short time, problems can last a lifetime.

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