How to Address Mouthiness in Dogs

Mouthing is a behavior that some dogs exhibit where they pick up objects in their mouths and carry them around. This behavior is not uncommon in puppies, but it can be problematic if your dog is mouthy with people or other objects that are important to you.

There are several reasons why dogs might mouth things, including:

1. Teething: Puppies often mouth objects to soothe their sore gums during teething.
2. Exploration: Dogs may mouth objects to explore their texture, taste, and smell.
3. Play: Mouthiness can be a form of playful behavior, especially in puppies.
4. Attention-seeking: Some dogs may mouth people or objects to get attention or to elicit a reaction.
5. Anxiety or stress: In some cases, mouthiness can be a sign of anxiety or stress in dogs.

It's important to teach your dog that mouthing is not acceptable behavior, especially if they are mouthy with people. Here are some tips for addressing mouthiness in dogs:

1. Provide appropriate chew toys: Give your dog plenty of appropriate chew toys to keep their teeth and gums healthy and satisfied.
2. Teach "gentle" and "leave it": Teach your dog the "gentle" command to encourage them to be gentle with objects, and the "leave it" command to help them learn to release objects when told.
3. Ignore the behavior: If your dog is mouthy with you, ignore the behavior and do not reward it with attention or treats.
4. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog for appropriate behavior, such as sitting or lying down calmly.
5. Be consistent: Consistency is key when teaching your dog new behaviors and correcting unwanted ones.

Remember that every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another. If you're having trouble addressing mouthiness in your dog, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for personalized advice.