Hi all,
I am just in the process of training my four month old Dobermann Bitch in the art of standing etc, ready for showing.  I am having a bit of a problem getting her to let us check her mouth to examine her bite, I have tried rewarding this process with treats but still find that as soon as we try to check her bite the front paws come up to stop us.  Just wondering if anyone has any little tricks that I haven't thought of up their sleeve that could help.......as its getting quite frustrating.
She

Try not to make an issue out of it.  Don't do it while you are show standing to start with.  Best time I have found is when the pup is sleepy. 

Start off by just gently rubbing your fingers along the gums, don't try and open the lips until she is happy with this.  Progress slowly and move on to the next bit when the previous bit is accepted without a struggle.

She may also be teething at the moment, then her gums and teeth will be sore, so take things very gently if this is the case.

Sandra

Thanks I will try what you have suggested, I don't seem to remember having this problem with my older boy.
She

your dog is not teething is it, i had a prob when mine started teething, he tossed his head around and his paw came up to stop us, we just let him be for about a week and then we started by just tickling him under the chin when relaxed sitting beside us and then litterly just lifted his lip and let it go every now and again, we never made a big thing about it,and now he understands that it is no big deal, just make little steps and you will make big progress.
Carol

Hi,
It's best if you don't make a big deal of it, and just gently handle her muzzle, not necessarily moving her lips, at all odd times of the day. Just say "teeth", touch her lips, praise and let go. Do this maybe 10 times a day, making sure you let go before she starts objecting, and she'll relax about it. Fiddle gently with her mouth while you're watching TV and she's sleepy, etc. But as has been said, she is probably teething so her mouth may be sore.
:)

Actually she is teething, God I feel thick! its obvious when its pointed out to you, I never even though about it,because initially we where doing quite well, thanks all.  I keep having these blonde moments, I think its something to do with age.
She