Unlike their human counterparts puppies do not have hands, which means they explore the world through their mouths! Taste, texture, chewability or edibility are all explored with those sharp little teeth.
Puppy mouthing and biting is completely normal behavior and many pups will have outgrown the behavior by 8 months of age. Puppy teething ends between 6-8 months and they have all of their adult teeth fully erupted. Between 8 weeks and 8 months, unfortunately it often hurts when those sharp little teeth get on our hands, feet, clothing, or shoes!
How do we live with the Fido version of Jaws between 8 weeks and 8 months?
Step 1 – Manage the Environment:
As mentioned earlier in this chapter using crates, play pens, leashes, and other management tools help prevent puppies from chewing on us or the furniture. If you can’t watch your puppy (much like you would a toddler on the loose) they should be secured where they do not have access to tempting items like shoes! If you want your puppy to be with you rather than in a playpen or crate use LEARN to EARN (Chapter 4) to help puppy learn proper household behavior.
Step 2 – Provide appropriate treats/chews and toys
It’s important as puppies grow to provide them with a range of toys and appropriate chewable items to help them through the teething process. Stuffed kongs, rope toys, and puzzle toys are all great options to give puppy some fun things to chew rather than you!
Step 3 – Redirect, Rinse, Repeat, & Redirect again
Consistency is the KEY! If puppy is after your shoes, redirect to a new toy, use the crate or playpen for a short nap and provide your pup with a proper chewable item. Puppies rarely learn on the first shoe/remote/or electrical removal, you’ll need to be prepared to redirect puppy to appropriate items many many many times!
Step 4 – DON’T PUNISH
Relationship with our dogs is super important and handling your puppies mouth is a requirement for veterinarians and groomers. Your pup should always be able to trust your hands around and near the face!
Never: grab the mouth, hold it closed, or pop your puppy on the nose
adapted from Jen Summerfield DVM/CPDT-KA