I often receive the question: “What do I do? My deaf puppy won’t stop chewing on me!”

The answer is quite short and very simple. Use the sign for "No" - clapping the right hand's index and middle fingers against the thumb. Combine your hand signal with a very stern face and gently and firmly - but gently - push the deaf pup back. Immediately get up, leave the room, and ignore your pup. Pups do not like being left and ignored.

When my pup calms even for a moment, I praise and reward. I also give a wonderful, safe chew toy, item, or treat. Repeatedly offer your pup wonderful safe chew toys or items before your deaf pup begins chewing on you. This will encourage, as well as reinforce, appropriate chewing. Consistent repetition will reap good results.

REMEMBER: A tired dog is a good dog. Our deaf dogs won’t chew on us when they are “plumb tuckered out.” Keep your deaf pup exercised and work off that excess energy. Deaf dogs can play and do things just like any hearing dog. Find your deaf pup’s favorite sport such as things like fetch, running, lure coursing, agility, or Frisbee.

The above video is taken from the children’s book: Hogan’s Hope: Discovering Fun and Favorite Things.