Why does a small dog bite?
Having a puppy is a wonderful thing - you can watch our friend grow step by step, but there are moments when sweet play causes pain, and we are talking about the quadruped nipping at household members. Many people do not realize that they need to get this under control from the very beginning so that it does not have negative consequences in the future.
Does every puppy bite?
EVERYONE. By biting, a dog explores the world, just like a baby who puts everything in their mouth. A puppy bites also for fun with siblings and parents. It will certainly be easier to prevent biting from the very beginning, and we are not just talking about hands - puppies also really like to nip at trouser legs or feet, so anti-biting training, despite everything, should be introduced from the moment the dog appears in the home. Read also: Welcome home little doggie
Where does the fun end?
Here the line is very thin from the very beginning. As a matter of fact, from the outset, a boundary should be set that human hands and feet are not for play. There are many available chew toys for dogs that will certainly help to set a line that the puppy will not cross, but of course, all household members should then adhere to strict rules in this regard. It cannot be that someone allows such play for fun, as there will be no results.
How to discipline a dog and teach it not to bite?
We introduce discipline from the very beginning. We show the pet that our skin is sensitive and should not be bitten for fun, the same goes for feet. How to punish a dog? The best way is a louder acoustic signal "OW" or "ouch" as soon as the dog brushes its teeth against the skin. Then ignore the dog for a moment so it knows it is being punished. Do not hit the dog or yell in any way! This can only create a bad association for the quadruped. Such a simple approach is definitely enough to teach a puppy. You can always have some plush toys nearby and alternately offer them for chewing - this will signal that our body parts are not for play in any way and after some time it should calm down.
Such a toy is a great solution when our dog feels the need to chew.
Dog toys - so that a human is not one
It's best to stock up on various toys at home, from chew toys to various plush toys. Let's categorize different toys:
- Natural chews also serve as a snack, but considering the dog's teething, choose small and relatively soft ones. These can be dried fish, rabbit ears, and tripe.
- Rubber bones with nubs massage the gums, providing relief when teething begins. There are various shapes, so the choice is not small!
- A dental ball with a place for treats is also a very good option for a puppy that is currently teething. It massages and can even get a snack! A wagging tail guaranteed!
- Plush toys - various kinds, and you can choose a lot of them, considering the quadruped's sharp little teeth. I remember my Bernese dog could deal with more than one plush toy a day, not to mention pillows if there were no toys. They were bought in larger quantities at my house just to save my furniture and accessories. I also saw a very useful gadget for dogs who miss their siblings from the beginning - there are plush toys that can be warmed to the dog's body temperature and given for cuddling. It works great in such situations and, from what I've seen, is highly appreciated. I didn't have this problem, but if someone does - you know what you can try!
- All kinds of squeaky toys - the sound may not be comfortable for us, but it's an ideal form of play for every puppy! Jake (my dog) loved to first find the source of the sound, tear the toy apart, and then proudly squeak that squeaky toy at me at every step... It had its charm, until my head started to hurt ;).
- Tugs are great fun with a dog. Tug-of-war, fetch - pure joy! Just remember that it's a puppy, so the play should be gentler; feel how much you can allow yourself so as not to cause harm.
- Balls, balls, and more balls! Their number in stores is huge, just make sure they are soft and small for now - adjust the size to the dog.
A dental ball that can be filled with treats is entertainment for the dog, but also development.
Read also: How to build trust between dog and human?
Understanding a dog's intentions correctly
A dog biting is nothing new, and I also know how annoying it can be, but it should not be interpreted as the dog being aggressive, no. A puppy may bite because its gums itch intensely during teething, and it is looking for a way to relieve itself. A young dog bites everything it can get its paws on at such times, but also... out of boredom. Puppies play very intensely but also for short periods. They regenerate during a nap and then it's playtime again! They also let us know with their teeth that they want to play; they are simply provoking us. This works well with siblings, but not necessarily with household members. Provide him with an adequate amount of toys and playtime, and you certainly won't have to wait long for the fruits of your labor. Puppies grow very quickly, so don't wait to teach and discipline. The sooner you start, the better for you, but also for the puppy - you will not only develop appropriate behaviors but also begin to build an extraordinary bond between you.
