Redirecting a puppy that is nipping and jumping for attention requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. And depending on your puppy’s temperament it might not be easy to stop. Just keep responding according to the tips below and as they grow up they’ll stop their lunatic like puppy nipping and jumping.
Ignore the Behavior
Puppies often nip or jump because they want attention. If you react, even negatively, you're still giving them what they want. Instead, turn your back, or face a wall, cross your arms, and ignore them when they start nipping or jumping.
Stay Calm
Avoid yelling or physically pushing them away, as this can excite them more. As their energy goes up, focus on grounding yours.
Redirect to Appropriate Behavior
Provide an alternative object besides your body or clothes. Offer a toy or chew item the moment they start nipping or jumping. Better yet if you see that your puppy is about to nip and jump be proactive and grab a toy. This teaches them what they can bite and play with instead of your clothes or body. Remember they want to engage and play with you! So, nipping and jumping that results from boredom can be redirected to an activity, like a game of fetch or some basic obedience commands.
Use Time-Outs
If the puppy continues to nip or jump despite redirection, calmly place them in a designated time-out area for 20 seconds. Or if it is easier, remove yourself, by going into a space they cannot. This removes the attention they crave and helps them understand that nipping results in no attention. Only do a time out to the count of 5, and repeat again immediately if they nip and jump.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
When your puppy calms down or refrains from nipping or jumping, immediately praise and reward them in a very calm fashion. Use a calm voice so as to not get them excited. The goal is to teach them that calm behavior gets attention and rewards too!
We love puppies! Use the contact form to schedule a free phone consultation.
Comentarios