Nipping and jumping up

You should never let your puppy dictate when it’s playtime. However, if they’re pestering you for attention like that, it’s a sign that something is missing: you aren’t playing with them enough. Play is actually vital for their brain development. So, once you’ve sent them away, wait a few minutes and then initiate play yourself. Get down on the floor for a bit of a rough and tumble—wearing your gardening gloves, of course! Puppies absolutely love it. BUT, the moment they get overexcited during play, walk away and don’t look back. They’ll soon work out why they’ve ended up all on their own. Play is the best training tool an owner has (second only to spending time with a well-behaved adult dog who can act as a role model—hopefully you know someone nearby with one!).

Hi there, At such a young age, this behaviour is quite common. Between teething, play excitement, and learning self-control, many puppies tend to jump up and nip when they’re overstimulated. The key here is to teach him that nipping puts an end to the fun. As soon as he nips too hard or latches onto your clothes, stop the interaction immediately, turn away, and only resume play once he’s calmed down. Avoid tugging at your clothes or continuing to play, as he might just see this as part of the game. You can also offer him a chew toy when he gets worked up, and try to focus on calmer activities (like treat hunting, chewing, or licking) if he has a tendency to get overexcited quickly. Make sure he’s getting enough rest too: a tired puppy often becomes... even more hyper! Finally, always reward the moments where he plays calmly or chooses a toy instead of your hands. With consistency and patience, this behaviour usually improves as they grow up. If the problem persists and is becoming a real struggle for you, don’t hesitate to speak to your vet or get in touch with a dog trainer. All the best, Inès