help cleaning wrinkles

Question
Bumpkin, our eight-week old bulldog pup, is a little treasure. For the most part, he is loving and playful, but he is still learning about what he can and cannot bite. We know that we need to keep his wrinkles clean, but we can't seem to keep him from biting the baby wipe or even our hands while we are doing it. We've tried distracting him with toys or nylabones, but no luck. Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Estera,

You are on the right track by offering your bully a suitable chew toy when he starts his biting.  In general, what you need to do is choose a command such as "off" or "stop" when he begins to chew or bite something inappropriate.  Everyone must be consistent in usig whatever command you choose.  When Bumpkin does start to mouth your hand (or any other no-no), firmly say the command word.  After he stops, give him a suitable chew toy, and then praise him when he begins chewing on it.  This will reinforce both that hands and whatnot are bad, and toys are good.  Dogs will generally repeat behaviors that get them rewards (such as praise) and will eventually learn to not chew the inappropriate items.

Never let Bumpkin mouth your hand, as this just reinforces to him that it is okay.  Additionally, be sure to check the nylabone on a regular basis, as these have a tendency to get chewed to the point where pieces may break off and get swallowed.  This could be bad!  They are safe when disposed of before they get too thrashed, but once they start to crumble, get rid of them.

Try this and see if this helps.  Again, praise him for stopping and chewing an appropriate item.  If this behavior continues, then I would recommend a consultation with a local dog trainer.

Good luck!
Stephen