How Old Is a Puppy When He Stops Biting?

Age does not have a bearing on when puppies stop biting. Training does. In order to get a puppy to stop biting, it needs consistent and patient training. Otherwise, the puppy will keep on biting.

  1. Function

    • Biting is a normal part of how puppies explore the world and play with each other, according to "KISS Guide to Raising a Puppy." However, a small puppy's light nip can cause serious damage when it grows up.

    Teething

    • Puppies go through a teething process whereby chewing helps with any pain. Teething is complete by the time puppies are 8 months old, according to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook."

    Alternative

    • Keep plenty of chew toys available for the puppy, whether it's teething or not. Since puppies have to chew, keep toys at hand to give them if they start chewing on something inappropriate.

    Natural Training

    • Puppies teach other puppies to bite softly during play by yipping when they are hurt, according to veterinarian and author Dr. Ian Dunbar. To train a puppy not to bite, yip like an injured puppy whenever the puppy puts its mouth on human skin or clothing.

    Time Frame

    • Puppies best learn new skills, like interacting with people and to refrain from biting (or bite inhibition), when they are 8 to 14 weeks old, according to "KISS Guide to Raising a Puppy." It's never too late to train a dog to stop biting, but it will take longer for a dog to learn than a puppy.