my 6mth old GS/Cross has just started chewing her lead while out walking. Well its more of a tug of war! If i make her get off the lead she then starts barking and then nipping me (my leg or arm). i have started standing still untill she stops but to be honest i feel a bit of a div, standing in the middle of a road while she is a loon on the end of a lead. Anyway am i doing the right thing by standing and ignoring this behaviour???
thanks Aly xx

Hello Peacebabe,
My puppy used to do this too, I think it's a playful attempt to be in control; I used a combination of treat in front of her nose and a plant sprayer - I give the treat as soon as she drops the lead (she can't do both at once) then walk on using an encouraging voice and praising. If she goes for it again, I spray a blast of water into the air first, saying, "Uh uh!" If that works, good, if not a quick blast in the face.
It was a little phase that didn't last long...as soon as she sees the plant spray, naughty look is replaced by sensible face! :rolleyes:

mine also did it, so i bought a chain lead and they did not lioek that in there mouth so they stopped.

Lastar if he doesn't have a toy in his mouth also does this, that's why I ensure that he always has something to hold as he[s quite a strong boy :d

Hi peacebabe

My choccy lab used to do it.  Shes a year old now but has now stopped.  I used to stop walking until she gave in.  I felt like a "div" too but it will pay off.  Very occasionally she will do it but only for a couple of seconds - like shes trying it on.  I think its something young dogs do and she will grow out of it.  I think you can buy a spray which tastes vile from the vets.  I didnt bother though....it may be worth a try.

We got a chain lead stops it dead :D

You can get 'bitter apple' that you spray on the lead and it taste horrible (like that stuff you can put on your finger nails to stop you biting them)  Poj literally had one taste and no more lead chewing.

Thanks for replies.Shes defo getting worse and yes trying it on big time!! will try the spray i think, then chain lead, she dosent start dog training till Oct, still a long time to wait!
aly xx

If you get a chain lead, be careful teeth don't get caught in it - it has happened on occasion...

Try distraction - she may want to carry something in her mouth. A toy could solve the problem. Also if you have any APDT trainers in your area (www.apdt.co.uk) they will be able to come out on a one to one with you and advise you on the spot :)

Out of interest why wait until she is quite old before you take her to training? Just wondering if your preferred class was full or something. Only it's best if you can, to take them to socialisation as pups and then to carry that on through and keep training for a while ...

Lindsay
x

Yes the preferred class is full till Oct, they run every 8 wks! I put vicks on her lead and this stopped the chewing but now she bows and barks at me, don't know what is worse??
Aly x