Aside from potty training, nipping and mouthing is one of the most common questions dog trainers are asked by new puppy parents. The behavior may seem cute at first, but those tiny puppy teeth can be pretty sharp. We asked Erika Gonzalez, professional dog trainer, behavior consultant, dog lifestyle expert, and founder of From Dusk Till Dog, for some tips on how to redirect your puppy whenever they try nipping at you. The following 3 steps will help keep your puppy happy and you and your family free of chomps.
Step 1: Be prepared
The first step in managing your puppy’s nipping and mouthing is to prepare to face it head-on. When puppies begin teething, nipping is an inevitability. There’s plenty you can do to redirect it, though. Start by placing “treat stations” around the house so that you can easily access them no matter where you and your puppy are. They can be treats stored in Tupperware, mason jars, or just in drawers. You can also use novelty toys. The goal is for you to be able to reach them without having to get up much, that way your puppy can easily associate them with the behavior.
Don’t let your puppy play or interact with these treats during any other time except for when you’re redirecting them from nipping. These are supposed to be special treats that teach your puppy not to engage in nipping behavior.
Step 2: Know how to respond
As we’ve already established, nipping is inevitable. You’re going to get…
How to Keep Your New Puppy from Nipping and Mouthing. Retrieved February 8, 2021 from https://embarkvet.com/resources/blog/how-to-keep-your-new-puppy-from-nipping-and-mouthing/
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