PUPPY BITING

This behavior is called "mouthing" and it is very normal. When dogs play with each other they play with their mouths. In fact, when puppies play with each other there is an average of 1 bite per second. Your puppy has not yet learned that humans are less amused by this than their canine companions. Mouthing, while certainly annoying, is probably the most important training opportunity you have for your dog: The opportunity to teach bite inhibition.

To train your dog out of mouthing humans (they will always mouth other dogs when they play, and that's fine) you must first teach her the strength of her own jaw. In the event she is ever provoked into biting (i.e., the car door slams on her tail) having bite inhibition will limit or prevent any injury.

Step 1:

When your dog mouths you too hard, let out a high pitched yelp or OUCH! This is how littermates communicate to each other when they have mouthed too hard.

If your dog continues to bite stop the playtime. (The natural consequence of playing too rough is no one wants to play with you)

If they continue to mouth at you as you walk away give them a short time out.

Step 2:

When step 1 takes effect your puppy will still be mouthing, she will simply be doing it more softly. At this point yelp or OUCH when she puts any pressure on the skin at all. We want her to believe human flesh is very sensitive.

Step 3:

Teach "Off". Once puppy is consistently biting with no pressure we can teach her not to bite at all. Teach her the cue word such as "off".