How to Train a Teething Puppy

Puppies use their mouths to explore the world around them, to taste and smell all of the exciting objects, animals and people they come into contact with. Normal puppy behavior means chewing and biting on littermates and the sensitive gums of teething puppies need rubbing and stimulation to allow the teeth to emerge without irritation. This tendency to chew becomes a problem and needs immediate correction when it carries over into interaction with their human family.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy treats and/or chew toys
  • Empty soda can
  • Several pennies
  • Duct tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Redirect your puppy to its appropriate treats and chew toys when it starts biting and chewing. Give the puppy a toy and then praise when it chews correctly to teach your new dog boundaries and set it up for success.

    • 2

      Say "ouch" in a loud voice when your puppy grabs your hand. Leave your hand in the puppy's mouth until it stops chewing and then offer a toy when it drops the hand. This mimics a puppy's play behavior with another dog and teaches it how much pressure on skin is too much for safe play.

    • 3

      Startle the puppy with a firm "no" whenever it chews on furniture, electrical cords or any other inappropriate objects. Loudly smack the item being chewed -- not the dog -- and lecture the puppy in a dominant voice. Use a scruff grip on the back of the dog's neck if necessary, advises Jeanne Carlson, trainer and dog behaviorist in "Good Dogs, Bad Habits."

    • 4

      Encourage your puppy to play fetch games with its toys and discourage wrestling or any rough play. This allows the dog to expend energy without becoming aroused and aggressive.

    • 5

      Craft a noise-maker out of an empty soda can by dropping several pennies into the can and then sealing the opening with duct tape. Shake the can vigorously whenever your puppy chews or bites inappropriately, and say "no" in a loud, firm voice.

    • 6

      Ignore the puppy if it is biting for attention. Walk away without looking or talking to the dog for five minutes. Once the puppy settles down, pet and praise the puppy for acting correctly. By not paying attention when the dog is acting up, you are removing positive reinforcement for bad behavior.

    • 7

      Pet and praise your puppy only when it is playing correctly, without becoming aggressive, lunging, barking or attempting to chew and bite.