Walker's K-9 Services

I've heard of all different ways to break this. From smacking the puppy on the head to locking him in the crate every time he does it. 

Well, let's start off by looking at the reason this happens. Think about it from his perspective for a minute. When he was with his litter mates this is how he played. 

He does not have hands to grab with so he uses what he has. He would wrestle with his littermates by biting, growling, and barking. He would play with his Mother the same way. 

So when you smack him on the head or lock him in his crate you are simply punishing him for wanting to play with you. Play is where the bonds begin. This is what builds the love he will have for you later in life. 

On a side note, never use a crate for punishment. He will begin thinking he is being punished every time you put him there. This should be viewed as his safe haven. 

The best way to break this is the same way his Mother would stop it. Simply grab him by the snout and firmly tell him NO. At first, I will immediately offer him a toy and play tug with him. Usually I start off with an old dish towel. 

Always remember, to think about your training and correction methods from his perspective. If he does not fully understand what you're doing, he will never learn. 

George Walker

Walker’s K9 Services