Dog Problems - Biting and Chewing

BITING

Dogs bite to get our attention, relieve frustration or change our behavior. Whether it’s playful, fear driven or dominant, get better control of your dog with obedience. Don’t ever allow her to be unleashed in a situation where she could threaten anyone. Be aware of the signs of impending aggression, such as making hard eye contact, stiffening, shifting weight forward, sticking tail out, growling, fast whining, or signs of interest, excitement or arousal.

When in doubt as to what your dog's behavior indicates, make her focus on commands. The time to get control is well before she reaches a highly agitated state; when her adrenaline is peaking, she’ll be oblivious to your attempts to correct her. This requires acute and constant supervision by a proficient handler.

CHEWING

When left to her own devices, a dog is certain to chew up your possessions. If you prefer to learn first-hand about the dangers of giving too much freedom too soon, puppy-proof your house by keeping it tidy, keeping doors closed and personal items out of reach and, as a preventive measure, smearing Bitter Apple cream on tempting woodwork and electrical cords. Confine your puppy in a safe place when you can’t supervise her. Finally, keep her leashed and correct her while she’s in the act of chewing by:

1. jerking her away from what she’s chewing on,
2. giving a spray of Bitter Apple in the mouth as you hold the collar,
3. startling the pup with a sharp handclap or shaker can, then encouraging her to play with an appropriate toy.

Note that certain items can increase problems with inappropriate chewing behavior. Avoid giving your dog personal items to chew on, like slippers, socks, gloves or towels. If your dog is attracted to the family’s stuffed toys, don’t give her soft, stuffed dog toys. If she is attracted to rugs or tassels, don’t provide her with rope or rag like toys.

If an older dog suddenly begins chewing on your possessions, give her plenty of exercise and appropriate items to chew, continue vigorous obedience and return to crating and supervising.