Puppy biting

BlazingSaddler

Hi all, we’ve had our Lab x puppy for 3 weeks now and I need some serious advice please. From day 1 she was a bit nippy, we’ve worked on distraction techniques, ignoring her and others. First of all it did seem to only happen when she was overtired but now it is whenever she is awake even after a couple of hours nap for instance. We’re at the stage where we are still housebound as she’s not getting the second vaccine until the weekend so I would hope when we can get her out walking this might help all of us. It’s really taken a massive shine off of the experience, my 12 year old who was the driving force behind getting her is now scared of her and I’m worried that she’ll actually hurt the 6 year old as the jumping/snapping/biting almost becomes frenzied. I know it was never going to be easy, we didn’t take the decision lightly but I really wasn’t expecting this. When I post on FB groups I’m generally told it’s just a phase but she’s getting bigger now and the kids won’t go near her. I’m struggling to form a bond with her as there are no puppy cuddles just stress at the moment. When she is awake it’s zoomies, completely hyper and then the biting. I’m beginning to think we’ve made a terrible decision. I don’t want to throw the towel in but maybe she’d be better off with a family with older kids who can give her a calmer house and devote maybe a bit more time. Sorry 😢

MAULBROOK

BlazingSaddler wrote: »

Hi all, we’ve had our Lab x puppy for 3 weeks now and I need some serious advice please. From day 1 she was a bit nippy, we’ve worked on distraction techniques, ignoring her and others. First of all it did seem to only happen when she was overtired but now it is whenever she is awake even after a couple of hours nap for instance. We’re at the stage where we are still housebound as she’s not getting the second vaccine until the weekend so I would hope when we can get her out walking this might help all of us. It’s really taken a massive shine off of the experience, my 12 year old who was the driving force behind getting her is now scared of her and I’m worried that she’ll actually hurt the 6 year old as the jumping/snapping/biting almost becomes frenzied. I know it was never going to be easy, we didn’t take the decision lightly but I really wasn’t expecting this. When I post on FB groups I’m generally told it’s just a phase but she’s getting bigger now and the kids won’t go near her. I’m struggling to form a bond with her as there are no puppy cuddles just stress at the moment. When she is awake it’s zoomies, completely hyper and then the biting. I’m beginning to think we’ve made a terrible decision. I don’t want to throw the towel in but maybe she’d be better off with a family with older kids who can give her a calmer house and devote maybe a bit more time. Sorry ��

Have a chat with your vet and they can recommend a trainer that can help you all.
Its early days and it will get better.

Buddy Bubs

Labradors are one of the nippiest puppies you can get, I have a 6 year old and a 1 year old. The 1 year old still loves to mouth at me and others but only does it now if we initiate it. I presume your lab is about 3 months old? It will continue until after teething anyway and the adult teeth aren't as sharp. Might help when you get out for walks.
My vet advised it was OK to walk outside anyway before 2nd vaccination, just stay away from other dogs. Check this with your own vet though, don't take my word for it
The dog is a baby, knows no better, it's your job to teach now away from its mother. Stimulate and challenge the dog, you'll end up with a beautiful adult.

DBB

Hi op,
Puppies are such a challenge, aren't they? Even people who've owned plenty of dogs before get the same shock when they get a new pup... it's like you forget what bloody hard work they are... maybe it's our brains' way of protecting us from the trauma I've owned and fostered loads and loads of puppies over the years, but my last pup, now 4 years old (a German Shepherd) was a NIGHTMARE in the biting department... oh sweet jebus, there were times that I despaired, wondering what the bloody hell I had drawn upon myself with this very cute, hairy shark living in my house:o Now, she's about the loveliest dog you could ever meet
Anyway... look, there are quite a few things you probably need to put into practise in order to manage the situation better, and to get a routine set up, and to gradually guide your pup away from the biting.
I think you'd really benefit from a session with a good trainer or behaviourist... you can quite quickly do a number of things that'll make you feel you have better control of the situation, and they can guide you on how to do this, and more.
There are limits on what trainers are allowed do under current restrictions, but I know 2 really super trainers who are doing Zoom consults, and I promise you... you will feel better after talking with either of them
One is Emmaline from http://www.citizencanineireland.com, the other is Jenny from http://www.thedogtreanor.com.

Give either one a shout if you can at all.
Best of luck... hang in there!