It happens to every puppy: teething. And unfortunately, it really causes a lot of discomfort so they look for things to mouth and chew. They also explore their worlds differently than people do – including using their mouths as a way to sense the environment and their surroundings.
The problem? Those little milk teeth are razor sharp and puppies don’t (at least in the beginning) realize how hard they’re biting. To prevent complications as the adult teeth begin to come in – and your poor hands from being torn to pieces accidentally – you need to nip it in the bud right away. Here’s how.
Learn to Yelp
It sounds strange, but it works. When puppies play together, one will yelp or bark when the other ends up biting too hard or aggressively. You can employ a similar strategy when you are playing with your puppy. When they bite, make a loud “Ow!” sound. Don’t quickly pull your hand away, though; instead letting it fall limp. Ignore your puppy for up to 20 seconds before you start playing again.
This strategy will not work if you have to do it over and over again in a single period of play, so you should limit this technique to a maximum of three times in any 15 minute period. Put your puppy in their crate for a short time-out session after the third offense. Your pup will eventually learn that this type of behavior will cause play to go away.
While some people enjoy and can tolerate rougher play with dogs, it’s not a great habit to get into. Your best bet is to train your dog to not put his teeth on you at all. You can do this by making your yelping noise anytime you feel your dog’s teeth, whether they’re preparing to bite or not.
Distract & Substitute
Make sure you have plenty of safe chew toys around the house for your puppy to play with. Offer something new anytime your dog seems like they are about to go after your fingers or hand. Try to stay out of the habit of allowing your puppy to play by putting their mouth on you, no matter what the game.
Puppies love being scratched and petted, but sometimes become overstimulated and think it’s time for play. It’s important to teach them that they can be touched. One of the best ways to do this is to offer a treat with one hand while petting with the other. They’ll realize they can receive affection without mouthing someone in return.
Some puppies will go after your feet and ankles instead of your hands. This painful form of play can get very old, very fast — especially if you walk around the house without shoes.
Try carrying a small rug or rope toy with you when you’re in the house. Immediately freeze when your puppy attacks your feet; you are no longer a moving target. Offer the toy as an alternative and start walking again as soon as your puppy takes it.
No toy on hand? Freeze and wait. Praise your puppy as soon as he stops messing with your feet and then go get him a toy to play with.
Walks & Play
Puppies need at least an hour of play per day to keep them occupied and free of extra energy. The hour can be broken up into shorter sessions, but a longer session is better for really tiring a little one out before bedtime. Puppies who are tired are less likely to start looking for things to get into. Bonus: they’re much less likely to attack your hands and feet for attention.
Walking is great exercise for any dog. Get out there and explore the great blue yonder as often as you can – within your dog’s capabilities, of course. If you’re a runner, talk to your vet about how to slowly work your pup into running with you. Other great forms of exercise include tossing a ball or frisbee if you have a safe and fenced-in place to play. Your dog will be able to run back and forth until they’re ready to relax.
Dealing with Your Puppy’s Teething
Teething is natural and uncomfortable. It’s especially important to be conscious of your puppy’s needs during this stage of life. They end up chewing and nipping during this stage because they want to play and because they feel crappy, too. The good news is there are some things you can do to soothe teething discomfort for your pup.
Give your puppy a teething toy or two and make sure they’re accessible at all times. Limit the number of toys to two so that your puppy doesn’t think that anything within reach is for chewing (like your clothes and shoes). Rubber toys filled with peanut butter or treats are great, too. They will keep your puppy focused for long periods of time.
Toys that can be frozen work for human babies and dog “babies,” too, and will soothe those red, irritated sore gums. They don’t need to be expensive, either. Grab a wet rag and twist it into a stick shape before putting it in the freezer. Your dog may also like a few simple ice cubes to chew on. Just make sure you aren’t allowing your puppy to chew ice or frozen rags on your bedding or in places you don’t want to find wet when everything thaws!
Never Punish Your Puppy
Punishment, whether physical or verbal, rarely works with puppies or adult dogs. As a matter of fact, it tends to break your bond and lead to more aggressive behavior. Be diligent in your training, remain consistent, and be patient.
Do your best to reduce temptation by keeping shoes, clothing, and other items you don’t want chewed off of the floor and out of reach. Avoid rough-house styles of play to discourage the use of their mouth. Instead opt for toys, walks, jogs, frisbees, and gentle forms of play. If all else fails and your puppy simply won’t stop nipping, talk to a professional dog trainer for additional help and advice. Rest assured, your puppy will grow out of this stage. It just takes time.