Just puppy nipping or bigger problem?

[bkennedy16]

Hi. Right before Thanksgiving I went to the pound and adopted the most precious 12 week old lab mix puppy. He is now about 18 weeks old and almost 40lbs. I've been working with him a lot in the 6 weeks he's been with my fiance and myself. He's being crate trained, walks decently on the leash, and knows sit, lay, shake, speak, and high five. He gets 2 daily walks (one in the morning and one at night), longer walks on weekend days and trips to the dog park. The majority of the time, he's a very well behaved boy.

But he has this one issue. He gets really nippy...he particularly likes to nip at our toes or heels. When corrected with a sharp "AHH" or a touch to the neck, he protests by whining, barking, and continues biting...just getting even more onery. I've tried leaving the room and ignoring him (doesn't work) and occasionally I give him a short "time out" in the crate which does calm him down.

Am I doing something wrong? Should I be more consistent with the time out? Any tips? Suggestions?

Thanks for your help!

[KOPsBecks]

I would suggest that if the time-out works then you should be more consistent with this. As soon as he starts nipping, put him into time-out. I would suggest given his age that this is not a serious problem and it sounds like you are doing all the right things. Good luck and keep up with the time out!