Thursday, January 8, 2009
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How to Teach a Puppy the "No Bite" Command

By eHow Pets Editor
 
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Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

  • your own puppy
  • patience
  • persistence
  • dog treats

How To Teach a Puppy the "No Bite" Command

  • Step 1:
    Realize that Puppies bite. That's a natural thing for them to do. They chew and bite on whatever they can find. Part of it can be teething, part of it is probably exploration, but none of it has to be at your expense. Keep in mind that you have the responsibility to be aware of this, and you should take preventative measures to make sure your treasures and important things are kept safely away from his grasp. You can't blame a dog for being itself, but you can make sure that both of you are protected. Beyond that, the next step is to train your puppy the "no bite" command. You should start this very early, as it's easiest to break a habit that never truly forms.To understand the language a dog first understands, you should observe him with this mother if possible. It is very clear that a mother has a definite way of dealing with her pups. If a puppy bites its mother too hard, she will discipline him. Sometimes by a cry, a growl, or even shaking them with her teeth. If a puppy is very naughty, she will knock them down and hold them in place with her paw. She is in control. You definitely should not try such approaches! You can take away the idea, though. Firmness is something that dogs communicate with each other. In her own way, a mother dog sets boundaries. That's healthy for you to do for your puppy.
  • Step 2:
    Show your displeasure. When your puppy bites you, show your injury. Exaggerate your dismay. You should exclaim "No bite!" immediately. Walk away. Do not engage with the dog again until he is behaving properly. This should be repeated if it happens again.
  • Step 3:
    Reward your dog when he does the right thing. If he starts to bite and stops, or you sense he is realizing before actions, give a generous reward. A favorite chew toy is fantastic, but most love an edible delight even more! If your dog is not responding to this message, don't dwell if you've given it a fair shot. All dogs are different, and there are many training techniques as a result. If this is simply not working, move on. Crazy is doing the same thing over and over, and you'll be wasting the time of both of you.
  • Step 4:
    Positive reinforcement is best when it comes to gaining a dog's trust and developing a positive relationship with your dog. You don't want to do nothing but spoil a dog, but you want your dog to be happy and willing to cooperate. So a great trick in training the "no bite" rule is rewards only. The best way to keep the experience positive for your dog is to lavish him with praise and rewards for good behavior and jobs well done. Distract him from biting others when you think he might or see that he will. Instead, show him alternatives. Get several options for your puppy to chew on close at hand at all times. Safe things will create new habits.
  • Step 5:
    If that doesn't work, there are many options. There are dozens of books written on the subject, as well as dvds to help in this journey. If you can afford it, a kind personal obedience trainer is probably the best way to go. Just make sure that you have full disclosure of all a trainer's methods before releasing your precious puppy to their power. Making sure they are kind and ethical will make the experience a wonderful one. Abuse can scar a dog, and his sense of trust, for a very long time. Be aware, be kind, and be firm. Those are key points to remember in dealing with your puppy, and you will have a full-grown obedient dog before you know it.

Tips & Warnings

  • Set a good example. By always staying consistent, your dog learns to do the same.
  • If you get a dog used to a reward for good behavior, never forget this part of a trick. Dogs remember.
  • Be patient. Do whatever it takes within yourself to gather the patience for your puppy.
  • Make sure to train your puppy before six months old. If you get your dog at an older age, it can still be taught. It's simply much better to train them as early as possible!
  • Never hit your dog! Abuse can cause harm to your dog in many ways.
  • Don't procrastinate when it comes to training your dog. Do it as soon as possible. As soon as it's over with, you have the worry out of your way, as well as a trained dog.

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