Dear Robyn, please review the following guidance. Effective immediately, it is recommended to implement the “Bite Inhibition” technique. Concurrently, it is crucial to commence instruction in the “Leave It” command using the “Leave It” method. Once proficiency in the Leave It game is achieved, instruct the puppy to “Leave It” when it shows an inclination to bite or appears tempted. Positive reinforcement should be provided when the puppy makes the correct decision. Conversely, if the puppy disregards the Leave It command, the Pressure method should be applied to mildly correct the puppy for biting despite being instructed otherwise. The sequence of these methods is significant – Bite Inhibition should be utilized during the initial weeks while the puppy is mastering Leave It, but the latter will ultimately train the puppy to cease biting altogether. The Pressure method conveys the seriousness of the command without excessive severity – since Leave It has been taught first, the puppy will understand that the interaction is not playful, thereby enhancing the method’s efficacy.
Training Guide
It is also advisable to teach the “Out” command, followed by implementing the strategy from the article on How to Use Out to Address Pushiness, to enforce it when the puppy is noncompliant, particularly in the presence of other animals or children.
Out Command Instructions
An integral component of training is the puppy’s acquisition of bite inhibition. Puppies must learn to modulate the force of their bite from a young age, which is typically achieved through play with other puppies. It is suggested to seek out a reputable puppy class in the vicinity that offers moderated off-leash playtime for puppies. If classes are not an option, one might consider locating a free puppy play group, or alternatively, assembling a group of friends with puppies for socialization. It is important to focus on puppies under six months old, as their play behavior differs from that of adult dogs. Supervise the play sessions, and intervene when a puppy appears overwhelmed or the group becomes excessively boisterous. After a pause to calm down, reintroduce the most timid puppy first to gauge its willingness to resume play. If it is amenable, then the others may be permitted to rejoin, provided they wait for permission. For guidance on selecting a quality puppy class, refer to the following resource:
Puppy Class Selection Guide
Additionally, when the puppy becomes particularly agitated, it may be indicative of a need for rest. Puppies often exhibit hyperactivity when they are fatigued or lack mental stimulation from activities such as training. In such instances, it is beneficial to place the puppy in a crate or exercise pen with a food-stuffed Kong toy to facilitate relaxation and sleep.
Furthermore, a valuable resource can be found on the following website, which offers PDF e-book downloads authored by a distinguished member of the professional dog training community and an innovator in the field of puppy kindergarten classes in the United States. To obtain these e-books, click on the images of the puppies:
Free Training E-Books
It is essential to recognize that mouthiness at this stage is entirely typical. While it may not be pleasant, patience is key, as it takes time for a puppy to develop sufficient self-control to refrain from biting. Progress may be gradual, but any advancement in the right direction is commendable. Persistence in training is encouraged.
Wishing you the best in your training endeavors,
Caitlin Crittenden
May 3, 2022
