Expert: Delores Beck - 2/4/2009

Question
My 3 month old cocker spaniel, Niña, is a very sweet puppy, I play a lot with her and walk her every morning and at about 6:00 pm I walk her again and even run with her. She goes to sleep at about 8 pm but right before going to sleep she gets really hyper and wants to bite me and play rough and although I know is just playing it really hurts me some times and breaks my skin with her tiny teeth.  How can I stop her from playing rough like that? Is there something more I should be doing?

Answer
This isn't aggression, Marie.  It's the way puppies play with each other.

But yes, those little teeth can hurt :) - so first try making a noise like a whimper/yelp of pain and see what she does.

I'd like to know how long you walk her?

I'd also suggest perhaps playing "chase the ball" with her and direct her more towards a toy than your fingers :)  If you can, do this on a carpet so she won't slip.

When a puppy this age does something you don't like the best thing to do is be very still - look directly into her eyes and say NO
firmly but quietly.  Do not break eye contact.  Continue saying NO until she breaks eye contact.  You just won.


But basically she'll outgrow this and a nice long walk before bedtime may solve your problem.  A tired dog is a good dog.
Delores