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Biting

Q: Dear Doctor Pup, I picked up my 8 week old Teddy Bear female puppy last Friday, and she has adjusted very well, eating ,drinking good, however I am now experiencing her teething which she has several teething toys, rings durning her play time and when I hold her is turning into very aggressive behavior. Scary. I tell her know and she just bites or barks.When I put her in her play pen she just barks. Please any suggestions? I love my sweet Teddy Bear, and want to enjoy her. Thank you

A: For the most part biting and chewing on stuff have nothing toBiting is a common problem, and it has little if anything to do with teething.  The first step is to help teach your puppy what acts you object, then there has to be a consequence that is rememberable.  You might try adding a period of shunning.  After a LOUD (needs to slightly frighten her) "NO" then you pretend that she doesn't exist, the only eye contact is a menacing stare and a few words that carry the same tone.  She needs to feel that you don't like her anymore (just for a little while).  Start with maybe 10 minutes and adjust accordingly.  If you try a timeout it also needs to be rememberable, often putting her in her crate is not effective since many puppies like their crate.  You can use another room or even a leash to restrain her where she can see you but she cannot interact with you.  Most trainers say that you should not use your hands for reprimand since that involves the object of her action.  I have had quite a few puppies in my lifetime and still the most effective reprimand is a quick, firm but not harmful thump on the nose and shunning.  Diverting the play to another action, like throwing a toy can work for some puppies but that is only after a firm reprimand.  I think some puppies have a problem with this approach because it all seems like play.  As with any training attempt your response needs to be immediate, consistent and result in some, at least temporary sacrifice for your puppy.