Play biting (also referred to as nipping or mouthing) is completely normal puppy behavior. While it can be cute when your puppy nibbles on your fingers, it is important to teach your dog early and consistently not to bite or be mouthy to avoid behavioral issues as they grow. Curbing biting behavior is especially important if your dog will be interacting with children, who may be frightened, or older adults whose skin is more fragile.

While there are various strategies to stop biting behaviors in puppies, we encourage the use of positive reinforcement techniques when possible. Should the strategies outlined below not work for your dog, reach out to your veterinarian, a local certified dog trainer, or veterinary behavioral specialist.

Oftentimes, puppies get overexcited during play and begin to use your hand as a chew toy. When your puppy starts using their teeth, teach them that biting is not part of play by startling them with a quick high pitch yelp.

It is important not to use words like “no” as this may discourage them from playing with you moving forward. Simply act like their puppy nibbles really hurt and should not be used during playtime.

Freeze

If your puppy bites at your feet while you’re walking around the house or goes for your fingers while texting on the couch, immediately freeze your whole body. Your puppy is trying to make chasing your moving limbs a game, so by freezing you are ending their fun.

They will likely continue to mouth for a few seconds, trying to get the game going again; try to ignore this as best as you can. When they stop, continue with your activity, and give them praise and a treat for being good.

Timeout

Puppies are still developing boundaries and emotion regulation, so sometimes during play they can get too amped-up and will not respond to the above techniques. When this happens, it is best to give your puppy a chance to calm down in a safe space. End your play session and walk away, or if possible, lead them outside where they can zoom their energy out by themselves for a few minutes.

It is important not to have a negative tone or impose any sort of punishment – remember, they are just young and lack regulation! This is just a way to show them that playtime will end if they start becoming too aggressive and they will start to learn how to play more gently.

Another way to pull your puppy’s play away from your hands or feet is to consistently have one of their toys close by. When your pup starts going for you, whip out their toy and put it close to their mouth to encourage them to play with the toy instead. This is especially helpful when your puppy is teething as they often just want something to chew on. Dog bones and chew toys are great replacements for human limbs!

One of the most important aspects of positive reinforcement is the use of rewards when your puppy is displaying your desired behavior. Whenever your dog halts their biting during play or takes a toy instead of your hand, provide additional praise or treats to reinforce this positive behavior.

You do not want to dissuade your dog from trying to play with you or showing you affection. Being aggressive or holding their mouth shut when they mouth can hurt the bond between you and your puppy; instead be consistent with positive reinforcement techniques listed above. If your puppy’s bites are putting people or other pets are risk, discuss the issue with your veterinarian or trainer before relying on negative feedback responses.

While it can be difficult to not physically react if your puppy’s sharp teeth sting, your dog may think this is part of play. They may lunge at you more and will be less likely to learn that using teeth is wrong.

Dogs learn through repetition and consistency, so it is important that anyone who regularly interacts with your puppy is briefed on how to respond to bites. Explain a few techniques you have been using and ask them to implement the same responses.

Training puppies in anything takes time and patience. Some puppies learn fast while others need more help. If your dog’s bites are becoming aggressive, endangering any people or pets, or not being curbed through your training, it is important that you reach out for help.

Ask for your veterinarian’s recommendations on local certified dog trainers with experience in puppy biting or find a specialized veterinary behaviorist. The longer you wait to seek help, the greater chances of harm being done as your puppy grows bigger and stronger.

If you’re concerned about your puppy’s biting, talk to one of our supportive and empathetic veterinarians near your today! Find a vet clinic near you.