How to train a puppy not to bite

By David Lessem

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Dog chew toys
<br />Old towel
<br />Knotted rope

Step 1:
Decide on what is acceptable. Some pet owners don't mind light nips from their dogs, while others believe any biting is unacceptable.
Step 2:
Don't wait. As soon as your puppy starts teething, you should begin to correct him when he bites too hard.
Step 3:
Whenever your puppy hurts you, sharply say "stop," "ouch" or something similar. Dogs yelp when they are hurt, so your puppy will immediately recognize this as a cry of pain, and should stop.
Step 4:
Immediately give the puppy a toy to chew on. Leave several toys around and, any time your puppy hurts you, repeat Steps 2 and 3.
Step 5:
If the puppy continues to bite too hard, leave the room, put her in her kennel, or do something else that doesn't involve the puppy for a few minutes. This will teach the dog that, if she continues to bite, you will not play with her. A few minutes is enough time for the puppy to understand.
Step 6:
Don't forget about other things that the puppy isn't allowed to chew on. If he starts gnawing your shoes, socks or other things he isn't allowed to bite, say a sharp "no" and give him the toy.
Step 7:
Use an old, knotted rope, towel or something similar as a toy you and the puppy can use to play tug of war. Puppies have a lot of aggressive energy and love to chew things, so having an outlet for those instincts will make your dog happier and provide you both with a lot of fun.
Step 8:
Give the puppy something to do. A lot of dogs are trained to work, and will behave better when they have some task to perform. Teach your puppy to carry things for you, or to play fetch.
Step 9:
Teach your puppy to heel. Even the most well-behaved canines get a bit out of hand from time to time. A "heel" or "sit" command will stop him when he gets too excited.

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