How to Keep a Dog From Play Biting

Puppy biting, nipping and mouthing is an entirely natural phase that most puppies go through. They do it out of fun and love and a lot of the time when they are teething. However, it is essential to get this issue under control, because in adulthood, even a playful bite can inflict injury. If you don't combat the problem while your canine is a puppy, it will likely persist in adulthood. Nevertheless, it is always possible to shake your dog of this playful habit.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog toys
  • Dog leash
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin your training as early as possible. It is always easier to break bad habits in a younger dog rather than in an older one. Once the dog is older, they have been used to play biting for so long it will be difficult for them to understand why they must suddenly stop.

    • 2
      If your dog begins to bite, give them a chew toy as a substitute.

      Redirect your dog's biting to a chew toy. When they begin to nip at you, sharply and sternly say no, and place a chew toy in their mouth. If it's a puppy that's teething, you could substitute the chew toy for an ice cube to sooth their aching gums.

    • 3

      Show your puppy that biting can be painful for you. After all, they don't mean any harm, they are simply trying to play. Once they bite you, pull away with a sharp "ouch!" and pained look on your face. Your dog won't want this reaction, and will soon learn that biting results in an unhappy owner. If they continue nipping, repeatedly say "ouch!" and leave the room if necessary.

    • 4
      Reward your dog with dog treats for good behavior.

      Reward good behavior. If your dog stops biting when you ask, give them a treat and praise them. This will make good behavior much more appealing.

    • 5

      Persistence is key. Dogs, like children, will not learn something the first time. Have everyone in your household participate in the training or your dog will think it's okay to play bite with certain people. Make it clear that biting in any form is not appropriate behavior.

    • 6

      If the play biting persists, enroll your dog in obedience classes. The teachers of these classes are experts and will be able to help you combat the problem.