New Japanese chin owners need to be ready to stop their young puppy from destructive chewing and nipping right from the start. In this post I will cover how to stop nipping and preventing and stopping destructive chewing.

A puppy will think nipping is acceptable if he is allowed to bit your hands when playing. To prevent this do not use your hands when playing unless you are petting him or tossing a toy for him to fetch. When your puppy nips you remove your hand and firmly say "No." If your puppy does not stop you may need to spray your hand with Bitter Spray or Bitter Apple Spray. He will soon learn that chewing hands is unpleasant. Another effective method is to keep a squirt bottle or a water gun handy. When your puppy bites you simply say "No", remove your hand, and squirt him in the face with water. Always say "No" before you use your preferred method of discipline. It will give your puppy a vocal cue that he has misbehaved and that his actions will have consequences.

Chewing is a normal and necessary chin behavior that becomes unacceptable when done in the wrong place. Puppies chew when they are bored, stressed, or to explore a new place. Or your puppy may be chewing because he is teething. If this is the case, give your puppy some type of freeze and chew toy. You can also make your own by tying a knot in an old rag, wetting it, and putting it in the freezer. Make the knot big enough so your puppy can't swallow the rag.

When you bring your new puppy home be sure to have plenty of chew toys for him. Get toys that are size appropriate. You will need to get small toys for your chin. Do not give your dog old shoes, clothes, socks, or any old household item. He will not be able to tell the difference between an old shirt and a new one. When you see your puppy chewing something he shouldn't, say "No" and remove the object. A reprimand must be sudden and consistent for it to be effective. Or if he is chewing on the legs of furniture spray the furniture with a taste repellent that will not stain. If you have to leave your house for a few hours put the puppy in a crate with several of his chewing toys.

Keep all hazardous materials out of puppy's reach. Chocolate, cleaning supplies, electrical cords, poisonous house plants, antifreeze, and toys small enough to swallow are a few.