Quote:
Originally Posted by ECL  Hi all,
I adopted my Yorkie (Nigel) in October. He's estimated to be about 6 years old but has hung on to a puppy-like mouthing behavior. I had hoped it would resolve on its own as he got acclimated to his new home but it has not. When he greets people, he takes their whole hand into his mouth. He never bites down, but it nevertheless makes people a bit uncomfortable. Has anyone else had trouble with their adult dog exhibiting this behavior?
Thanks,
Emily |
I would try to correct this behaviour. Taking people's whole hand into his mouth sounds very unpleasant! Have you tried to yelp or make "Ouch" sounds?
If that doesn't work, I'd make sure to ignore him and turn your back on him when he puts your hand in his mouth. Only give him attention when he doesn't put your hand in his mouth.
One of the best training tips I've ever read was to train a pup to sit when greeting people. No jumping, no biting, just sitting! Basically the incentive is that the pup only gets attention from you (or guests) if he sits. When he is sitting, he gets the "good boy"s, the fun welcomes, the ear scratches, the back scratches etc. When he is mouthing or jumping, you ignore him right away. He'll learn REALLY fast. Trust me. All they want is your attention. And he'll learn that only certain behaviours gets him your attention. Only caveat is that it's up to you to be consistent in order for him to 'get it'.
It's just training your dog to be polite and have good manners
