Young pup biting 5 year old son.

[CrankyPantsJamie]

We just recently got our first dog. A beagle-black lab mix. He's adorable and loves to play. The only problem is he is CONSTANTLY biting my five year old son. I know puppies are teething and need to bite, but he only nibbles on me and my boyfriend, but he really goes at my son with his mouth wide open. We know he is only playing, because he's not a mean dog... But it scares my son and he's afraid to play with him. We've tried telling him "NO!" and putting a toy in his mouth instead, but he still seems to like to bite my son. I think it's because he's smaller, but I would really like to train him that this is not acceptable.

Help?

[DiggityDogs]

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[CrankyPantsJamie]

Wow. Thanks. Now I feel silly for not searching better. :rolleyes:

:) Thanks.

[blue lacy lover]

good luck with the new pup!

[ClarkFarm]

Please let us know if you have any other questions still. I know it is a frustrating time but if you keep on top of it, there will be a day soon when your son and pooch are good buddies.

[MhadDog]

Dogs,and even pups as young as yours,seem to be able yo recognize the difference between a mature human,and a child.

It is possible he considers your 5 year old one of his littermates and is playing with him like he would with one of his own.

At this point,I think it is a good thing to teach your five year old how to react to certain dog behaviors.

I would teach your son not to play rough with him,and to learn to "YELP"like a pup if he does get a playful nip.

Even at 5,there are plenty of rules and behaviors your son should know,when dealing with dogs.First and foremost in my mind is that he should never punish the dog physically.Aggression begets aggression in many animals.

There are books that deal with training the family and the dog to live in harmony.Interesting reading if you have the time.

Good luck,and please keep updates comming.We all learn from eachother,and updates are very useful.