Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

Any good methods for training your pup not to nip. It started as teething, but now he's "playing" like that and it's hurting. Bitter apple does not work.

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

does he nip at other people? or just you and DH? How old is he?

I find that our puppy nips at US ONLY and was told that he is mouthing. He is great with everyone else. We find it bizarre. But, I am guessing it is a sign of affection. My puppy is 4 mos. and we are going to monitor to see if it gets any worse. HOpefully, by 6 mos. he will get better.

Have you tried freezing a wet wash cloth? Our puppy loves to bite on it. It is great for teething.

I would love to hear any other feedback about teething.

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

When Katie was a pup everytime she nipped we said no. When that didn't work we flipped her over on her back and held her there until she calmed down. She would scream but it worked.
Now you can rough house with her, stick your hand in her mouth and she will not bite.

ETA: We gave her lots of things to chew on while she was playing, that seemed to help

Message edited 3/24/2008 3:12:33 PM.

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

Gus was a nippy puppy, with me, with others, with other dogs. He was very mouthy, but not a biter so to speak. I had him play with older, bigger dogs, and the "cuffed him" of nipping at them. Then for me, it took a long time, but I used to rub butter all over my hands and let him lick it off, and I kept saying "gentle, be gentle"...and now when we're playing and he gets too rough/mouthy with me, all I have to say is "gentle" and he calms down and starts licking, it's my "buzz word"...however, I went through I don't know how many frozen carrots, rawhides, cheese marrows, tennis balls, tire biters, etc....he was a big chewer, but I kept him with enough toys that he never chewed shoes or furniture.

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

replace your hands, with lots of chew toys...tell him/her "no" and give them the toy instead.

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

the best way is to teach the dog that when he nips, he no longer gets your attention. remove all of your attention from him. Say no, Put your hands behind you back and walk away. Nipping = no more play time

Also constantly reward the dog for chewing on toys and chewsticks.

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

Everytime Penny nips, we tell her no and give her either a "Bully Stick" or a toy. It actually works pretty good!!

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

as someone else posted

I would say No Bite then remove your hand and put a toy in his mouth

Re: Tried and true method? Nipping/mouthing

Thanks everyone! I will definitely give your suggestions a try and will remain consistant.