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Home > Training Tips > Puppy Nipping
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"Nip" this unwanted behavior it in the bud!
Puppies nip, chew and mouth things for several reasons. One, they are teething up until and thru the period they start to get their adult teeth at about 4 months of age. Two, pups explore and learn about their world via their mouths. Just like human toddlers are notorious for grabbing everything in sight, pups will put anything within reach in their mouths. Three, pups play by using their mouths.
Keep in mind that puppies aren't being 'mean' or 'bad' when they nibble and gnaw. They are just being puppies! Still, this doesn't mean we should allow and condone mouths on human body parts. There are some things you can do to help curtail your pup's nipping and help him (and you!) get through this trying time.
1) Human hands are not play things! When you use your hands to wrestle around with your pup and playfully push his face around, guess what? He's going to begin seeing those hands as play items he can grab. Use a toy to play with your pup, never your own hands.
2) Speaking of toys, have lots of interesting toys handy so that you can distract your pup with a rubber chewy or a fleecy animal when you are interacting with him and he seems interested in grabbing something. Redirect nipping behavior to the toys!
3) Set up play-training sessions. These are small blocks of time you will use to help your pup learn good manners while burning off some excess energy. Prepare by using a chew deterrent spray on your hands (make sure they are covered with the yucky tasting stuff). This is to help teach the pup that human hands don't taste good and that he'll have a more enjoyable time chewing on pup toys. Have plenty of toys available, as you sit on the floor and interact with your pup. Use toys to redirect biting behavior, but if your pup does decide to nip, you'll have the chew deterrent and its nasty taste ready to change his mind about that idea. If your pup gets too rowdy, get up and walk away from him. If he's likely to follow you, attach a leash to a sturdy piece of furniture and have the pup clipped to the leash ahead of time. Walk away. Don't leave the pup alone, just move far enough away that he cannot get to you. Wait a minute or two, and then return to play with him. Repeat every time your pup gets too excited and nippy.
This training tip was provided by:
Peaceable Canines
Mary L. Harwelik, CPDT - Reiki 3
Certified CGC Evaluator - APDT Member
Union County, NJ
908-347-9552
Email: realpitbull@gmail.com
Website: www.PeaceableCanines.com
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