My 2-year-old adopted German Shepherd play bites. How can I stop it?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• 

  Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on

  Congratulations on your new dog! I would highly recommend reading this article by veterinary behaviorist Dr. Sophia Yin who outlines a detailed plan on different methods to deal with this behavior issue: https://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/puppy_play_leads_to_nip_marks_on_hands_and_arms/

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• 

  Answered By Marlow Ball, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 7th, 2017

  Puppies will chew, it is how they explore the world and how they communicate with each other. We have to teach them not to communicate with us by biting. The best thing to do is a quick no, then ignore them. For a little dog I will say no bite then put them on the floor and ignore them. For a bigger dog I will physically turn my body and ignore them for a few minutes then give them an appropriate toy to play with. Puppy kindergarten is a great experience for new dog owners and helps owners establish healthy boundaries and strengthens the bond, I highly recommend you enroll in a puppy training class once your pet is up to date on vaccines (ask your vet when this is ok). I hope that helps

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• 

  Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 18th, 2017

  Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. In these cases I recommend keeping a leash and collar on the dog at all times so that you can quickly grab the leash and give a firm tug and say "off!" To try and correct the behavior. Another technique I have used is a spray bottle filled with water and every time he bites, growls or barks you spritz him in the face with the water. Loud noises also help deter an unwanted behavior. I recommend a can filled with coins and shaming it or throwing it nearby to startle him. As for the biting of the hands, you can even goes as far as to coat your hands in bitter apple spray or wear gloves and coat the gloves in bitter apple spray to help deter him from chewing and biting you. You can find this spray online or at your locsl pet store. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• 

  Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 27th, 2017

  He needs to start going to the vet now because vaccines are started at 8 weeks of age. He will also get a fecal exam and standard dewormers for intestinal parasites. To help stop play biting you can try telling him a stern “no”, then directing him to a toy that he can place in his mouth instead. Also yelling in a high pitched voice when he does bite too hard helps. But ultimately once he is old enough to start puppy training classes, this will help him the most becsuse pups learn how to play nice by socializing with each other. There also tons of books and videos for sale to help train your puppy well. Best wishes wth your new pup and take care.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful