If you are the sort who returns to a home that resembles the bowels of a shredding machine, you probably share board with a teething puppy. To rescue your footwear, get some chewy toys for your dog to attack. All puppies nip for fun and gradually learn that biting is not acceptable.

If your older dog continues to rip your home (or friends) apart - you have a pooch with a dire psychological problem. The only solution is the TLC treatment (Yes, tender love and care will cure your dog of most behavioral problems). Adult dogs bite to injure if they are trained for it, when they feel threatened or have a medical condition. If a usually peaceful dog starts to bite in their old age, it can be a sign of pain or acute discomfort.

Have no fear, most dogs that bite can be cured of their habits with the proper training.

Socialize:

Go dog park hopping. Your little pup will grow into a well adjusted pooch, if it meets other youngsters, canine and human. Puppies learn the dynamics of the pack through interactions with others. It is a bit tougher to socialize an older loner.

Introduce Your Dog:

Dogs can be taught to differentiate between 'friends' and potential threats or 'attack targets'. Always introduce new visitors to your pet - the postman, milkman and the neighbor. Inform the visitor of your dogs' tendencies so an over-reaction on their part doesn't startle the dog. Keep a firm grip on the collar while your pet sniffs up the new person.

Play Gently:

Discourage tugging, pulling or use of excessive force. Always let your pet know if it hurts you while playing. Yelp loudly and scold 'No' or 'Heel' if they nip you by mistake. If the dog has the habit of ankle grabbing in the middle of a game - end the game. Let the dog know you disapprove and will not play unless it quits biting.

Bonus Treat:

Reward pooch for every instance of good behavior. When he refrains from nipping a pair of ankles or obeys a direct command, give him a treat, pet him or play his favorite game while exclaiming 'Good Boy' in fond tones.

Positive Reinforcement:

Avoid chaining or striking the miscreant as that can create resentment and anger in the dog. If your pooch is especially notorious, keep a water spray around to scare it.

Who's The Boss:

Look her in the eye and let your pet know what behavior is unacceptable. A dog treats his human family as its pack. For a dog to feel secure, it needs to follow a strong leader. If you are giving your dog mixed signals about who's boss - he might react badly.

Top dogs protect the pack, lead all walks, take the most comfy spot, eat first and are generally "bitchier" - you should follow suite.

If your dog does not respond to your training, take it to a professional and don't forget that "Beware of Dog" sign on your gate.