Puppy play-bite can lead to a serious problem until the pup reaches a certain age where training him to not bite can be a hardship. Read on and learn tips and tricks on how to successfully train your pup to avoid biting, even for play.
Q: What must be done if my puppy jumps and play-bites for attention? Is this normal?
A: Unchecked, jumping and puppy play-bite often become more and more severe, until the dog is of a size and age where both actions can really hurt and frighten humans, particularly, kids. Your puppy must be taught that both habits are unacceptable. To cure play-biting, spray a non-toxic, bitter-tasting liquid (ask your vet for product names) on to the area of your body that the pup normally tries to bite. Hold out your hand and let the puppy mouth it. He will usually recoil in disgust at the foul taste and, after a number of repetitions, learn that biting humans is unpleasant.
Furthermore, adhere to these tips:
- Make sure members of the family don’t encourage puppy play-bite. Instead, give him toys that he can chew and play with without harming anyone.
- Handle your puppy’s mouth from day one, so that he becomes accustomed to hands being in and around his jaw without biting. Praise him for letting you do this, so he learns that he is rewarded for not biting. Don’t tap the puppy’s nose when he bites, as this will merely encourage him to do it again.
- Don’t respond to your puppy when he jumps up. Ignore him, keep your arms folded and avoid eye contact. When he gets down and makes no further attempt to jump up, reward him. This teaches the puppy that jumping up is a negative experience, whereas not doing so is a positive one.
- Most people, especially kids, love to say hello to puppies and adult dogs when out walking, but it’s important that you ask them to refrain from doing so until the puppy sits and waits quietly for attention.
- Remember to give your puppy attention only when you have first called him to you. When you have finished fussing him, say “enough” and gently push him away, fold your arms, avoid eye contact and ignore him.
- Make sure house visitors know your rules on giving the puppy attention and what to do if he attempts to jump up at them or starts making puppy play-bite.
