This is normal and is his way of exploring the world. This is also a way a puppy lets you know if he wants something or if he has had enough of something. Mouthing and nipping are two different issues. Mouthing is a communication skill to get you to do a particular thing. Less pressure, less annoying, but still not particularly charming. Nipping is a puppy thing; it is interactive and playful. Nipping puppies are bossy and manipulative and need a firmer regimen.

Mouthing is often an attention-getting behavior. If your puppy uses it to communicate a need to go out, respond. If, on the other hand, your dog mouths you for a pat, ignore it. Read the rest of this entry »

In the course of a good rough and tumble, you will use words that he will remember next time. He will learn “Stop that,” if he gets rough himself. If he needs reprimanding, a firm “No!” and a quick tap on the rump should make him behave.

Protect your puppy against what is really teasing, as when children call it “play” to steal his toys and hold them out of reach or to wrestle too roughly and hurt him. In addition, never play with him, or let children do so, until the point of exhaustion.

Reward him when you are teaching him something new, and let the play increase his understanding of you and your understanding of him. The time you spend with him can develop into a closer bond. He is learning, among other things, that you are his owner. Read the rest of this entry »