How to Train Your Chihuahua Puppy Not to Bite

Like nearly every breed of dog, Chihuahua puppies have a tendency to bite. Puppy bites, commonly referred to as puppy mouthing, are not typically intended to be aggressive. In most cases puppies bite because they are playing, or they are teething. That said, teaching a puppy not to bite is essential because otherwise they will enter adulthood with the idea that biting is okay. In most cases teaching a puppy not to bite isn't difficult.

Things You'll Need

  • Chew toys
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Instructions

    • 1
      Puppies playing

      Teach your chihuahua puppy to be gentle first. It is important for puppies to understand that humans have thinner skin than dogs. When a puppy bites another puppy too hard, the other puppy will yelp and withdraw from play to alert the overly aggressive puppy. This is how they learn to play together without injuring each other. When your puppy bites you too hard during play, make a high-pitched yelp, and stop playing.

    • 2

      Praise your puppy often when he plays gentle, or licks you instead of biting you. Additionally, if your puppy stops playing in response to you yelping and stopping play, praise him and resume play.

    • 3

      Give your puppy a time out if he refuses to stop play, or ignores your negative reaction to him biting your hard. Puppy time out should be short; stop play for just 20 seconds. If he won't obey, move away from him for 20 seconds. Return to play after the time out. This should help you teach your puppy that hard bites stop play.

    • 4

      Teach your puppy to bite toys and bones as he gets older. When your puppy goes to mouth your hand, replace your hand with a toy he likes.

    • 5

      Stop walking if your puppy bites at your feet and ankles when he is nearby. When he stops biting at you, praise him, and offer him a toy.

    • 6

      Play non-contact games with your puppy. Play with a tug-of-war rope, or throw a ball or frisbee with your puppy.

    • 7

      Give your chihuahua puppy time to play with his puppy friends. If you don't have another dog, take him to a dog park. Getting rough play in with other dogs will make it easier for him to resist at home. Just make sure that your puppy has all the right vaccinations before he interacts with other dogs.

    • 8

      Don't allow your puppy to get bored with his toys. Provide a steady stream of new chew toys to keep his interest where it should be.