Expert: Kaza - 11/10/2008

Question
Hi,

my puppy is 16 weeks and is mouthing alot, he is quite lively and when he is playful he tends to go for my hands and bites quite hard, I have been saying ouuchh but this seems to make him more excited and bite even harder, I then walk out but it doesnt seem to be working. how can i teach him to play gently. thanks

Answer
Craig its how you say it , I personally recommend yelping like the little guys litter mates would. Then remove pup from you by form of distraction. This will abate with time, but its a natural part of how your pups character will develop, if we attempt to stop that with force then sadly the pup will develop poorly.

Try to carry with you some soft treats in your pocket or a squeezy toy, after yelping in a high pitched voice then use the toy yo distract him from his task.
The little guy is simply forming a social system , its called pack hierarchy and yes you are part of his pack.

For a more informed answer please go to my website and chat with owners who have experienced this .


www.eurobichons.com

and very best wishes to you and the little guy
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