4 1/2 month--how stop biting

[Tankgirl76]

Does anyone have a good way to stop my Rottie from nipping and biting while playing? I know that's just the way he plays, but what's cute now is not cute when he's 110 pounds. I'm going to ask our trainer on Friday when I see him, I heard him tell another owner something about pinching the nose, but I'm either doing it wrong or Oberon doesn't care. Any suggestions?

[brutus'mother]

I found good advice after searching the Puppy Development forum for "bite inhibition" Good Luck!

[AngelBunny]

I suggest you look for another trainer if the trainer you're thinking of using told another owner "something about pinching the nose" to end jumping and biting/mouthing.

Punishing a dog for something the dog doesn't know is wrong is cruel and barbaric. Much better and smarter to redirect the puppy by giving the puppy something he can chew and rewarding the puppy for taking the item. Or put the puppy into a Sit and reward puppy for sitting. These actions are positive reinforcements and make the puppy feel good that he's accomplished what you want.

Check the AKC's site for clubs in your state and contact clubs closest to you about obed class.

More physical exercise--taking puppy for a walk or throwing a ball will help, too. Are you playing with your puppy calmly? If you have children who are running around and screaming, don't let them do this when the puppy is around as it winds him up.