How to Train Your Puppy Pitbull to Not Bite

Pit bulls have a reputation for being dangerous and vicious dogs. While they do have an inbred aggressive streak, it is naturally directed toward other dogs rather than toward people. With proper training, firm discipline and plenty of socialization starting from a young age, you can successfully raise a sweet and well-behaved pit bull that will not attack animals or people.

Things You'll Need

  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Yelp loudly and in a high-pitched voice when your pit bull puppy bites or nips at you. Grab your puppy gently but firmly by its scruff and shake it gently while giving a firm command such as "No biting!" Do not grab or shake your puppy hard enough to actually hurt it; the point is to show dominance, not to retaliate.

    • 2

      Turn your puppy onto its back and hold it there gently with your hand on its chest several times a day. Do not release the puppy until it has stopped squirming and tilts its head back, completely exposing its throat. Dogs consider this a demonstration of submission. Since pit bulls are more concerned with dominance than many other breeds, regularly establishing your dominance in this way will remind your puppy that you are the pack leader.

    • 3

      Walk your pit bull puppy regularly and for long periods, if possible. Pit bulls tend to be very active and energetic dogs. Sufficient exercise will allow them to work off some of this energy and therefore cause them to be less inclined to play rough, thus making playful bites less likely.

    • 4

      Hold a treat firmly between your fingers and offer it to your pit bull puppy without letting go of the treat. Allow the puppy to sniff and lick the treat and even take your fingers into its mouth. If your puppy applies any pressure with its teeth, firmly say, "No biting!" as you withdraw the treat and ignore the puppy. A few seconds later, re-offer the treat. After a moment of gentle mouthing by your pit bull, say something like, "Good gentle" and give the treat to the puppy. Repeat this process frequently, as pit bulls can suffer from food aggression and this will discourage your puppy from developing that attitude.

    • 5

      Carry treats with you when you walk your dog and ask strangers to offer them to the puppy. These people should not temporarily hold onto the treat as you did in Step 4; they should simply feed the treat to your puppy. This will help your pit bull realize that strangers are friends to be liked, not threats to be bitten.