One way to get ahead of puppy biting is to play a quiet game of Peek a Boo where you hold puppy in your lap on his back and gently play with his feet hiding his eyes and saying "Peek a Boo". Dogs are very cautious about their feet being touched because their feet are very sensitive, especially the tops and in between the toes. A dog's feet are the crux of a dog's survival from ancient times. It's how he dug for food or shelter, fought for survival and his only way to escape danger so some believe there is a primitive response that goes along with a guarded and sometimes downright feisty reaction to touching their feet. It can also be caused by one misstep in cutting a toenail or some other foot injury. So starting as a young puppy gently caress his feet to get him used to having them touched and rubbed. If you're not sure about clipping or grinding a dog's toenails for fear you'll cut the "quick", the blood supply in the center of the toenail, it's worth the money to have a professional or the vet cut them!
At the same time play with the tail and mouth, putting your fingers in and touching his teeth and gums and rubbing his belly and playing with his ears. This gets him used to being touched in these places that are sensitive but will need to be cared for. Teeth and gums will need to be inspected and brushed and ears need to be looked at and cleaned. If puppy tries to bite or chew gently say “ach, ach” and take your fingers away and replace with something he can chew on. Dogs communicate with their mouths so licking is okay!
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