How do I stop my adult dog from mouthing me?

A question came to me today about a wonderful dog named Isaac. He wants to climb in his owners lap and cuddle, but has the habit of mouthing or biting their hands. How can you stop the undesirable behavior of mouthing while not discouraging the desirable behavior of cuddling?

He's something to try. What works on one dog, may not work on another. But this technique has a very high success rate.

There is no punishment used, no commands, or harsh words. In fact, no words at all!

This method is all about knowing what your dog wants, and showing him what leads to his reward, and what does not.

I suggest that when Isaac starts to mouth or bite at the hands, the owner immediately moves away. All attention to Isaac is terminated, for the moment. Each and every time he mouths, turn away, get up, or otherwise break the cycle. It is not necessary to make the break from attention long. Just a moment will do. Then go back to the dog and engage him. Again, if the mouthing starts, turn or move away without a word.

I have seen this method work wonders. Dogs are all about results. As soon as they see that a certain behavior leads directly away from what they want, they will usually avoid that behavior.

TIP:

• Everyone close to Isaac must participate in the method. Consistency speaks to dogs, and in this training method it is a must.
• While in training, consider putting Isaac on a leash when visitors come. This neutralizes the potential for the visitor to unknowingly undo your work. When he starts to mouth them, just pull him away and distract him.
  

Give Isaac a big hug for us!