How to Stop Dog From Mouthing

Mouthing is when your dog places his mouth around any part of your body, similar to play biting. This is a completely normal developmental phase for puppies. Since dogs do not have hands, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. Although mouthing is normal, it is best to teach your dog that it is not acceptable to mouth you and the rest of your family when he is young. This will prevent your dog from continuing to mouth when he is older.

Things You'll Need

  • Taste deterrents like lemon juice or bitter apple spray
  • Bones
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Avoid rough housing. When you rough house with your dog, he is much more likely to mouth. He sees you and your body parts as chew toys. If you haven't started rough housing, do not start it. If you already have, stop allowing it. Save rough housing for outside playtime if you must allow it; otherwise, when you are inside your dog will mouth your hand or arms in an attempt to get you to play.

    • 2

      Apply a taste deterrent to your hands when you plan to have play sessions with your dog. You can use lemon juice or bitter apple spray, which can be purchased at your local pet supply store. Your dog will not like the taste of these deterrents and will not want to go back for another taste.

    • 3

      Yelp like a puppy when you are mouthed. Remove your hand or foot from his mouth and remove your attention from your dog. This is communication that your puppy will understand. Puppies yelp when they are in pain and remove themselves from the situation. When you yelp, your dog will understand you are hurt.

    • 4

      Ignore your dog. Cross your arms and stare at the ceiling for 30 seconds or turn away. Do not shove your puppy. This only tells her you are playing with her. Yelling or hitting her will also make her think you are trying to play, or worse, cause her to fear you. When you ignore her, you avoid reinforcing the behavior.

    • 5

      Distract your dog. When she mouths, give her something that is acceptable to chew on, such as a bone or a toy. Or try teaching her to lick you instead. To do this, hold a treat in your hand and say "No bite." Let your dog lick your hand and then give her the treat and praise her.