[TamiNChance]

Ok my baby is 9 weeks old and when he plays with our black lab he sounds so mean. Is this normal for a pup his age or should i be concerned that this is the start of something bad to come? He seems soooo sweet as long as he is not playing. But once he starts playing he seems mean. Even when we were outside the other night, my 3 year old son had a frisbee and Chance wanted it so he jumped up and bit him on the arm to get it. How do i get this under control before it gets worse?

 

[Michelle]

Good question.  My puppy growls sometimes, but only during play.  I would also like to hear some advice...

 

[TamiNChance]

how old is you handsome little guy?

 

[JeanenesBoogerBabies]

I have heard that it is very normal...the biting has to be addressed...but, the growling is very common!  Liz has a great article on dog body language that helped me tremendously! It's under the General forum...check it out!  

My guys are 13 weeks old and we are still working on "no bite" but, not as much...

Nice to meet you, Tami...

Jeanene

 

[TamiNChance]

Thank you...it is nice to meet you too. How does the "no bite" work? The only person he bites is my 3 yr old. And usually it is just him walking by and Chance bites him. Wow yours are 13 weeks??? they look big.....you are gonna have some big babies on your hands

 

[lillyzmomma]

Advice from a trainer:

The growling is play growling and is normal for all puppies that age.  They learn a lot when they play and he is testing his boundaries with your other dog inthis manner.

A way to teach bite inhibition is to yelp VERY loundly when he nips.  When he nips your 3 yr old, tell him in a firm (but not harsh) voice, "No biting!!!" and redirect his attentions to something more appropriate, like a chew oy.

Hope this helps!!!

Liz and Lilly

 

[summer]

harley always growls when she plays, it does sound mean but with her body language i know she is playing around.