We just adopted a dog from a local pound ( black lab mix). He's 8 months
old and has been in there since March. There has been some obedience
training ( sit, paw and down are the only behaviors he knows). He's not
aggressive in any way but there is a problem I don't know how to handle.
When he plays or wants attention he'll grab an arm or hand in his mouth and
chew. How can I break him of this habit ?

Thanks in advace

We just adopted a dog from a local pound ( black lab mix). He's 8 months
old and has been in there since March. There has been some obedience
training ( sit, paw and down are the only behaviors he knows). He's not
aggressive in any way but there is a problem I don't know how to handle.
When he plays or wants attention he'll grab an arm or hand in his mouth and
chew. How can I break him of this habit ?

Thanks in advace


First off...I want to say Thank You for adopting a dog in need.

I am not a trainer but what has worked with my pups and I have also seen
mentioned on here many times is to yell OWE or something of this sort when he
does this. Also, no play after teeth touch human skin. Ignore him....hopefully
when he sees that mouthing gets him no where - no fun, no play....he will get
your attention in other ways. He has been at the shelter for a while...so I
would think this is going to take him a bit of time to understand....depending
how and how much they played with him there.

HTH,
Jan

JAn's suggestions are good. Do be aware that this is VERY normal, if
unwanted, behavior for young RETRIEVERS. These are very "mouthy" dogs.

Jo Wolf
Martinez, Georgia