Puppy Biting - Page 1

Hello everyone...

First time GSSD puppy owner (got him 3 weeks ago) and I had a quick question for the group. I know that puppies like to chew, but for some reason my little guy likes to chew my HANDS (and he is beginning to learn how to bite hard).  I read that you should issue a command (like no bite) and substitute with something appropriate to bite/chew (like a toy or pull rope).  My question is what is the most effective way to teach the puppy not to nibble on my hands (or other humans for that matter) and at what point do they "grow out" of this stage?

Thanks!

This is NORMAL! He pains from the teeth. He need something to chew m8. Buy him a chew toy.. And if he is a little pup like 2 months old,tell him a word like "no" but not to aggresive...! Dont be afraid,this is normal!!

skortos

If you are not going to do protection work with him, then this is the perfect time to teach bite inhibition (soft biting), before you teach him not to bite. A wonderful book to read that talks about this among other topics is "The Culture Clash" by Jean Donaldson.

And yes, give him plenty of toys of varying textures to satisfy his need to chew. Bully sticks will distract event he most adamant dogs from your hands.

Well I will say that depending on how strong the desire is to bite, it may take a lot more patience and perseverence on your part. I have had pups that would not take a bully stick to chew if their life depended on it, they wanted to chase and bite. I have always had success with ice cubes, sounds simple I know, but it has worked well for me, I agree with making sure yo have plenty of toys on hand to redirect behavior. Good luck, be patient, this phase does pass, how long depends on the pup.

Theresa

Thank you for all of the replies.  I will go ahead and utilize the suggestions.

Yes, normal behavior, especially for the WL dogs.  Just went through this with my 7 month old Czech prodigy.  His permanent teeth are in, so now I get the occasional bruise instead of a cut.  I re-direct him to toys and just started sleeve work with him - an effective release for the inherent drive to locate, bite and shake prey. I also give soup bones as a nutritious treat to work his jaws on.  I do not want him to associate biting people with punishment as a whole.

Very intelligent dogs, they will learn when it's time to switch off and when not to play rough (with small kids, house cat etc.).