How to Stop a Puppy From Biting Hard

Playing with a puppy is all fun and games, until the puppy starts biting down hard on your hand, arm or leg. Puppies have a natural tendency or urge to actively nip or bite at an object or person when they play. Learning how to stop a puppy from biting hard, with verbal training, is a must if you want to prevent any injuries from occurring as a result of the puppy's behavior.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
  • Chew toy
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Instructions

    • 1

      Yelp loudly in a dramatic manner and say "No" in a stern, firm voice immediately after the puppy's teeth come into contact with your hands, arms, legs or feet.

    • 2

      Turn away from the puppy and ignore it for approximately one to two minutes. Withdrawing your attention from the puppy will make it realize that biting is not okay and if it does bite, its play time will come to a screeching halt.

    • 3

      Resume playing with the puppy and repeat the above listed steps each time the puppy attempts to bite you.

    • 4

      Reward the puppy with treats and praise every time he obeys or responds positively to your training commands.

    • 5

      Provide a chew toy for the puppy. According to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, puppies regularly go through teething stages and need something to chew on to relieve some of the pain and discomfort it may be feeling.