Hi, I have a well behaved 7 month neutered male standard poodle puppy with one problem of concern to me, he likes to mouth my older childrens' hands and legs when they run up and down the stairs. He also tries the same thing with other peoples young children. My children are 17, 19, and 21. I've explained to them to walk and have him follow slowly and then praise him for behaving properly, but as soon as they forget he gets excited again. It is obvious that he loves all people and wants to be very close. He is so well behaved we go in stores, have wellchaired people pet him,etc. and he is very welcomed almost everywhere, unless somebody besides me runs or walks fast. I actually do some short jogging with him and have no problem at all. My question will this become a dangerous habit or with work will he grow out of it? My trainer doesn't have this problem with him either, she suggests I just keep working with him. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you, Jane

-- Anonymous, January 11, 2001

Answers

HOW ABOUT USING THE HEAVY AND WIDE RUBBER BAND THAT COMES AROUND ON BROCOLLI AT THE GROCERY.

WON'T HURT, BUT WILL LIMIT ANY "MOUTHING".

-- Anonymous, January 17, 2002

I have two standard poodles that mouth all the time. The oldest, Toby, is 5 years old. In addition to "holding my hand" he also leaps up and down at the same time. Toby is a Delta Society registered "therapy dog" who works with battered women and their children, visits nursing homes and has worked in the physical therapy unit of a hospital with patients who have suffered strokes.

Susie is my female who will be 2 years old in March. She mouths us all the time. Mouthing is also a sign of submission and is used by puppies to get their mother's attention. Susie is also a Delta Society registered therapy dog who works with the ederly and children. Poodles are smart and just seem to know what to do and when.

However, if your dogs behavior bothers you, try putting lemon juice or bitter apple on your children's hands and arms and have them purposely run. Your dog should not like the taste of either.

-- Anonymous, January 29, 2002

I have two standards also. Annie is 6 years old, extremely well behaved and rather laid back. She also "holds hands" when we walk to the mailbox together, or if she hasn't seen us for a few hours and is happy. She does this very gently and ONLY to people that she likes!

-- Anonymous, March 21, 2002