How to stop a labrador puppy biting and nipping

25-01-2008, 18:41

Recently got a black labrador puppy. She is around eight weeks old. While I understand that she is still very young, her behaviour is getting out of hand and stressful - namely biting your feet, legs and hands. I've read that you should try and distract them with a toy etc but this isn't working even after a fortnight of trying. I have also read that a short, sharp "No" or "Ouch" can work but this hasn't helped either.

Just tried the "No" while keeping eye contact with her and surprisingly she growled - which is a little worrying.

Anybody know of what I could do to stop this biting/nipping behaviour?

TheBlueRaja · 25-01-2008, 18:44

Muzzle?

25-01-2008, 18:49

You need to show the dog you're the boss, be more strict. If that doesn't help, just have it put down and buy another one.

WHISTLED · 25-01-2008, 18:59

And the idiot award goes to.......... Enuff!

Need to stop the dog thinking its a game, trying to distract with toys is possibly reinforcing that.

The sharp command usually works but not of its with a mixed message. Personally I find EY! works better, its just sharper and they respond better to a higher tone of command.

The dog needs to associate biting/mouthing with something bad. The shock of a rattle bottle (like they use on programmes like dog borstal) is a good way of doing that, it never worked with mine but she is odd. Ive also found that a water spray in the face from something like a water pistol works well. It doesnt harm them.

If its a lab they are known for being intelligent but they are so popular they have suffered from over breeding. If you have the money to do so its worth investing in some dog training, look on WWW for something local or ask in your pet shop. Most do groups or 121 training.

Pia · 25-01-2008, 19:33

Kick it in the face.

lmao, joke

Hom3r · 25-01-2008, 19:39

If it bites, put it in the hall for a few minutes, leave it on its own, even if it crys,

do this every time. eventually it wil learn not to bite

Bulky · 25-01-2008, 20:45

lol , not much help from a few

, i thought Zak (my dog) would never stop trying to chew my finger off , i found grabbing hold of the bottom jaw with your thumb in her mouth (thumb in mouth , index finger on the bottom jaw) , she will struggle to 'lick' your thumb out of her mouth. do this every time she 'mouths' your hand she will eventually get the idea that it is an unpleasant experience. if she nips your legs or other parts give her a slight 'touch' (not a slap) to the side as if you were using the force from star wars to the top of her shoulder and give a forceful "oiii no", if she doesn't stop do again until she gives up ( i must stress there is very little force involved , it is much more of a nudge and you must mean it , not suddenly give in to her cute puppieness

) she WILL grow out of it , don't worry , just takes time and patience , enjoy her while she is young , a few pics would be nice

, the growling i a show of dominance , nothing to be worried about at this stage in her life but it must be 'nipped in the bud' , she will learn who is in charge , a few stern words at this age seem to make no odds but trust me , keep up the discipline and she will show the work you have put in when she is older

just to add , if you think she is nippy now , just wait till she is teathing

, protect the furniture at all costs lol , have you thought about a dog crate , priceless imo

25-01-2008, 20:53

Short, sharp, shock - Do you have a cattle prod?

Bulky · 25-01-2008, 20:59

Quote:

Originally Posted by Enuff

Short, sharp, shock - Do you have a cattle prod?

i agree , would probably work a treat , just not quite 'humane' , hope you don't have any animals

, for a rat that was biting i'm sure this would be the perfect answer , mmmmmm m grilled vermin lol .

dragon · 25-01-2008, 22:32

Maybe A gentle tap on the nose?

25-01-2008, 22:45

Give it to the local chinese, they'll shut it up

dragon · 25-01-2008, 22:47

Quote:

Originally Posted by TraxData

Give it to the local chinese, they'll shut it up

How could you

Angua · 25-01-2008, 23:26

Bit my lab gently on the ear (just enough so they feel it) stopped him biting people, didn't stop him chewing shoes though

25-01-2008, 23:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Angua

Bit my lab gently on the ear (just enough so they feel it) stopped him biting people, didn't stop him chewing shoes though

To stop him chewing your shoes, leave your dirty socks in them.

**Hugh** · 25-01-2008, 23:40

Erm, never had a dog, have you?