A bored dog can quickly become destructive.

Most animals are genetically programmed to hunt, search or forage for their food. Companion animals are often given food for free and may become bored without enough exercise of a job to do. A bored animal can quickly turn to destructive activities to release his excessive energy as seen in the image. Most problem puppies we see have been separated from their family at a very young age. In the beginning, these puppies will spend most of their time sleeping. A few more weeks down the road and the natural instincts to explore and play appear.

This is usually when people would give us a call asking for help.

Bite inhibition

A young dog is often not aware of the power of his own bite. It is very common for households with young puppies to complain about their dog playing too rough, biting too hard, etc.

Bite marks left by play biting
A puppy’s bite can sometimes leave painful marks.

How we can help

A course consisting of 3 sessions is offered to control play biting and excessive energy. Most people are able to achieve enough improvement with only the first 2 sessions.

What you will learn

  • Introduction to dog care
    • Feeding
    • Socializing
    • Common mistakes that should be avoided
  • The energy cycles
    • How each cycle begins and ends
    • Signs to look out for
    • The reasons that push a dog to become destructive
    • How to channel your dog’s energy away from your hands and furniture
    • How to stop a dog from chewing your valuables

What’s next

Click here to contact us and book a private session.

Stuff you should know!

Play biting is a stage most puppies will go through. It does not mean your puppy is evil or is trying to hurt you.

As a result, please remember:

Never ever hit your dog to try to potty train him, it will make him distrust you (no, hitting with a newspaper is also not acceptable).
Never yell excessively at your dog, it will just confuse him
Never punish your dog by locking him up
Never punish your dog by chaining him

Trying to use force to stop play biting can turn the game into real aggression. Remember, your puppy is biting you because he wants to play with you. If you hit your dog, you will destroy the trust and any scared animal might learn to defend himself. Left unchecked, play biting will often subside with age; training only helps speed up the process. An abused dog that has turned aggressive will, however, take much longer to rehabilitate. Violence is never an appropriate solution; as humans, we are not necessarily stronger than a dog, but we are always smarter. The proper approach is to simply outsmart the dog to make him do what we need him to do.