by Conny Manero

Created on: May 09, 2010

Playful biting or nipping is one of the most common problems in puppies and dogs.  If you just adopted a puppy or a dog, you cannot expect him to be well behaved from day one.  Dogs need to be trained as to what is acceptable and what is not.  This takes time, but with love and patience you can teach your dog that nipping is not acceptable.

If your dogs nips during playtime, the solution is simple ... stop playing with him.  your dog is smarter than you think and he will quickly put two and two together.  If you see your dog nipping tell him firmly ‘No’.  Your body language and your tone of voice will let him know that he is doing something wrong.  However, don’t expect him to understand it the first time, repetition is the key here.

Another reason your dog might nip is itchy gums.  If that is the problem, give your dog a toy to chew on.  The next time he tries to nip at your fingers or ankles, give him the toy instead.

Another way to discourage your dog from nipping, is to show him that he hurt you.  By nature dogs love their owners and knowing that he hurt you will hurt him.  You don’t need to bleed or cry out with pain, simply make a sound that he associates with pain is often enough.

If your dog nips at a stranger, the reason might be that he is afraid of that person.  Being afraid of strangers is not unusual for a dog.  You can work at this by letting your dog regularly socialize with other people.  Keep him on a leach, introduce him to your family, friends and neighbors and let him know there is nothing to worry about.

If your dog is still in the learning stage that biting or even nipping is not allowed, keep him on a leach and warn strangers.  A warning might prevent an accident and a law suit.  You also might give strangers a treat to give to your dog before entering your house, this way your dog is more likely to become friends with the family member, friend or neighbor.

Don’t forget to praise your dog if he accepts the treat without biting or if he doesn’t bite during playtime.  You must let him know what a good dog he is.  Dogs thrive on praise and will want to continue to please you. 

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