When meeting people puppies jump to get to a person’s face. They use the person’s breath for identification. Discourage jumping by teaching the puppy to sit and stay when meeting people. Do this with the pup on a short leash, lift at the collar and push the haunches down. Pet and praise when she sits. The new person then causally greets with hand extended, palm open. If the puppy jumps, slip a hand under the collar and pull to the side placing the puppy back on four feet and praise. If you catch the puppy as she is about to jump, say “ No jump”. Then pull her down with the leash or push her down with a knee or your hands on her shoulders. Be persistent and consistent. Don’t allow jumping on anyone at anytime.
Chewing is a normal activity for dogs which alleviates boredom and stress. Also, puppies learn about the world around them by picking objects up in their mouths to “feel” them. Chewing can also alleviate the discomfort of teething. If your puppy picks up something that you don’t want her to have, take it away and say, “No”, then substitute one of her own toys. Remember, puppies cannot tell the difference between old clothes and new clothes, so never let a puppy have old castaway socks, sneakers, or shoes. Finally, never punish for chewing unless you catch the puppy in the act. She won’t know what she’s being punished for and will learn to fear you.
Puppies will bite each other as a form of play and also to establish dominance over each other. If your puppy grabs your finger, legs or clothing, say “No bite”, grab the muzzle firmly with your hand for a few seconds, then release.
Puppies will show many behaviors that are a normal part of social activity with other dogs, but which can be objectionable to people. The most common of these are biting, jumping and chewing.
Behavior
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