Problems & Conundrums:
Changing Your Dog's Behavior

Biting

Nothing hurts our feelings more than when our pet chooses to growl or worse, bite us. Growling and biting are instinctual protective reactions to something uncertain. Dogs must learn how to use their mouths and voices at a very early age.

If your puppy is biting too hard choose a word such as “ouch” and be sure your dog associates it with a certain tone. Over time, he will learn to use his mouth properly.

Monitor play time with soft squeaky toys. If you don't watch your pets interaction with his toy, there’s a good chance he will rip it up, reinforcing rough play with his mouth.