Biting, biting!

Discussion in 'Labrador Behavior' started by Lis, Apr 20, 2017.

  1. Lis

    Lis Registered Users

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    I brought Woola home 3 weeks ago now, he's the sweetest pup ever and has a docile and playful temperament. He's a quick learner and so far not destructive (at least not beyond the norm for a 3 1/2 months old lab) very obedient, however I'm starting to worry about his biting while playing, approaching to me and every time he gets a little "too happy ". My arms and legs are full of bruises and bites now, and I'm always finishing the game as soon as he starts getting overexcited, although it's not very easy when even walking away from him makes him bite even worse at my shoes... please help! Every piece of advice is appreciated.
     
  2. Oberon

    Oberon Supporting Member Forum Supporter

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    Hi and welcome to the forum :)

    Don't worry, that kind of biting is totally normal! Hard to believe when you're on the receiving end, I know.

    You are doing the right thing by briefly ending the game when he bites too hard (shut yourself in another room or step over a baby gate). You can also redirect him to biting on a toy instead.

    The good thing is that this is a developmental stage that he will grow out of. Just keep quietly persisting with what you're doing and it will all turn out just fine. And in the meantime wear long sleeves etc etc to give yourself some protection.

    Here's a good article about biting and how to deal with it: http://www.thelabradorsite.com/labrador-puppies-biting/
     
  3. selina27

    selina27 Registered Users

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    Hi @Lis , yes totally normal, at least it was for my puppy too. They do grow out of it although at the time it seems to last forever.
    Follow the advice from Oberon and yes in time all will be well. :):)
     
  4. Boogie

    Boogie Supporting Member Forum Supporter

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    I know they are crazy crocodiles at this age - All mine have been! It's 100% normal.

    Take heart, they quickly grow out of it. Wear tight sleeves and skinny jeans - wellies if necessary!

    Here are some articles with the best advice - more importantly, it WORKS! The only tip which didn't work for mine was the yelping - that just made them even more excited.

    The important thing to remember is that repetition is needed - lots and lots of repetition for them to learn new skills.


    http://www.thelabradorsite.com/labrador-puppies-biting/


    http://www.thelabradorsite.com/how-to-cope-with-an-overexcited-labrador-puppy/


    http://www.thelabradorsite.com/how-to-play-safely-with-a-labrador/


    http://www.thelabradorsite.com/labrador-training/


    ...
     
  5. leejane

    leejane Mum to the Mooster

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    Hi there,
    In addition to all the good advice above, if you are using a crate you may find popping him inside for a few minutes will not just give you a break, but he may well be able to settle down and have a little nap - I found over tiredness can make them seem even more bitey on occasions. It also helps if you can get anyone else in your household being consistent and doing exactly the same things as you. Good luck
     

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