Things You'll Need
- Kong-type toy
- Bitter, sprayable, nontoxic substance, such as bitter apple
- Squirt gun or shaker can
Instructions
Give your puppy his own safe, chewable toys. The Humane Society says not to provide household goods as toys, since this may confuse the dog. Kong-type toys, which can be filled with treats or food, will help your puppy adjust to chewing on his toys instead of your possessions.
Avoid using your hands to play with your dog. Veterinary Medicine says biting or mouthing in puppies is a playful behavior. They advise using toys, such as balls or rope, which let you interact with your dog without direct contact. Don't play too rough, as that can overexcite the puppy and encourage biting.
Make sure your puppy is getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. The ASPCA says chewing might be an expression of boredom. They suggest plenty of walks, playtime with other dogs, classes or puzzle toys, in which you can hide treats inside.
Spray a bitter, nontoxic training substance, such as bitter apple, on areas you don't want your dog to chew, or on your hands if he bites. Veterinary Medicine says when the puppy chews on a treated area, give him an acceptable toy to chew on instead. You will need to reapply the spray to keep the bitter taste strong until training is completed.
Socialization and training can, according to the Humane Society, alleviate nervous biting behavior. They stress the importance of including the whole family in training. Introducing your puppy to a variety of people and other dogs can help assuage nervousness and prevent biting.