I can always spot a new puppy owner by the red teeth marks on their hands and arms. Puppy teeth are so sharp! That’s how they explore their new world. They will be biting, chewing machines at least until they’re 16 weeks old.
Puppies, like toddlers, rely on their owners to provide Prevention and Safe Alternative Outlets for their puppy crimes. Remember they have no impulse control and no self-regulation — really — until they’re about 14 weeks old. So dog owners are responsible for gently nurturing these skills in the puppy. Yes, it takes patience and persistence. But when you’re rewarded with those big, beautiful, puppy-dog eyes, it’s all worth it!
Got a CHEWER-BITER on your hands? Watch the replay of Solving Puppy Biting and Chewing for some great suggestions. Learn the secrets to building the puppy you dream of with these simple games and exercises. AND learn why you should adopt this mantra:
What do I want the puppy to be doing instead?
If you take nothing else away from my training, this one nugget is worth its weight in gold!
Did you notice the list of chewing solutions available?
- Nylabones
- Bully sticks
- Beef knuckle bones, if you supervise your puppy.
- Rope toys
- Squeaky fluffy toys
- Stuffed kongs with canned food mixed with dried kibbles, peanut butter or yoghurt
- Dried sweet potatoes
Are you working on creating your own Puppy Chewing Plan? Remember to include these things:
- Puppy proof your home
- Create a Puppy Confinement Area for Alone Training
- Puppy Schedule that cycles busy times and quiet times.
- Techniques for interrupting puppy mischief and redirection.
- Manage your expectation for what puppies can do.
Have you been enjoying my Youtube videos? Feel free to add a comment and thumbs up for each one! (Pssst…people who sign up for my newsletter get special access to all of my free, unlisted webinars.) If you haven’t done so yet, please sign up for my newsletter so you get your special invitation to my Puppy Pandemic Problems! series of webinars. Did I mention they’re FREE?!!!