Solutions to Stop Puppies From Biting

Biting is a common behavioral problem for puppies because the act of chewing is a normal and instinctual habit, and young dogs use their mouths as a means to explore their new surroundings. It is important to teach puppies at a young age that they are not allowed to bite or get mouthy with people or other animals. There are different techniques and solutions to teach your puppy that biting is an unacceptable behavior, and it is important to choose a plan that works with your training philosophy.

  1. Verbal Reprimand

    • When your puppy bites you, make a loud high-pitched noise or say “ouch” immediately. Dogs yelp like this when another dog in their litter hurts them, so they will recognize the verbal signal. The verbal reprimand should be loud and clear so the dog is surprised and remembers that biting causes this reaction. Verbal reprimands should accompany any other techniques you use to train your puppy. The entire family should participate in this training; the puppy needs continuity and repetition to learn this change in behavior.

    Redirection

    • Since chewing and biting are natural instincts for a young dog, you can redirect their mouthy energy by giving them a chew toy, rope or other object they can chew on. Verbally tell the dog "no" when it bites you and praise the dog when it chews on the replacement object. According to the website VetInfo, this training plan will help to set the dog up for success by teaching them which objects they can and cannot chew.

    Isolation

    • Immediately following the verbal reprimand with isolation will send a strong message to the dog. Physically turn your body away from the dog and stop playing for at least one minute. In severe cases, you can leave the room or walk the dog out of the room each time it gets mouthy. According to the website Dog-Solutions, isolating puppies that bite or snap is a method used by mother dogs and other puppies in the litter, so it is an effective method.

    Chew Deterrent Spray

    • If your puppy continues to bite, you can apply a biting and chewing deterrent spray, which is available at your local pet supply store. These sprays are not harmful to your puppy, but the smell and taste will keep them from biting your skin. Deterrent spray can also be a useful tool in breaking your puppy’s habit of chewing on household items. Household staples such as aloe vera or Tabasco sauce can also be used in lieu of a store-bought spray.