How to Teach My Puppy to Stop Biting?

Puppies commonly bite and nip at the hands as a way to play and experience things. A dog's mouth is like our hands are to us, and it uses its mouth to pick up objects and learn about them. Regardless, biting is not a habit dog-owners want their pets to carry into adulthood. They may also have small children that can be injured by a bite from their puppy, so proper steps must be taken to eliminate this behavior and reinforce proper methods of play.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog toys
  • Dog treats
  • Collar
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stop playing with your puppy immediately if it bites you while playing. Remove your hand and replace it with a chew toy instead. Praise the puppy if it stops biting you and continues chewing on the toy. This rewards the dog for its positive behavior.

    • 2

      Draw back your hand and say loudly "no!" or give a sharp "ouch!" if your puppy still persists in biting. Squealing loudly or making a hurtful dog-like whine is also very effective. Turn away from the puppy and ignore its attempts to continue play. This teaches the puppy that biting will only result in an end to fun time.

    • 3

      Repeat this behavior every time you play with your puppy. Eventually it will start to understand that it is being too rough and begin to bite softer and less often. Whenever your puppy plays properly with you without nipping, make certain to give it plenty of praise and treats.

    • 4

      Use a collar with a leash while walking the puppy. If it runs up to others and attempts to nip, gently pull it back and loudly tell it "no." Reward the puppy with treats and praise if it greets others with appropriate behavior.