Why Do Dogs Nibble on Hands?

Although most of the things your pooch does may seem totally adorable and irresistible to you, not all actions fall into that category, unfortunately. Nibbling on your hands -- and perhaps even those of others -- probably isn't too endearing a behavior, especially in dogs beyond the puppy stage.

  1. Playtime

    • Some dogs nibble or "mouth" on peoples' hands when they're in play mode. Although playful mouthing usually comes to a halt naturally when puppies are still with their littermates, some adult dogs hold on to the behavior, especially if they didn't get to spend a lot of time with their siblings during their puppy stage. If your pooch is nibbling on your hands, he's may be curiously exploring them. If he's feeling playful, his face and body may have a loose and calm appearance, rather than a rigid and tight one.

    Enthusiasm

    • Some canines also mouth peoples' hands when they're feeling enthusiastic or overwhelmed about something. If you just returned home after week-long work trip across the nation, your happy pet may nibble on your hands simply because he can't contain his positive feeling about the whole situation. He may even display other hints of giddiness -- think jumping up and down, whimpering and barking excessively in a piercing tone.

    Fierce Biting

    • A dog nibbling hands probably isn't trying to be fierce with anyone. If a dog does intend to bite someone, expect something fast and sharp rather than anything drawn out and "nibble-like." You may also observe hints of aggression on his face -- a crinkled muzzle or exposed teeth, for example. Despite the probable lack of aggressive intent in hand nibbling, eliminating the behavior is the way to go. Although the nibbling today may not hurt, you can never know about tomorrow until it happens, especially if your doggie is on the younger side and is still growing. The bigger the pooch, the more the nibbling may hurt -- ouch.

    Attention

    • Canines occasionally resort to hand-nibbling behaviors when they're seeking some good, old-fashioned attention from you. If your pooch wants you to notice him for whatever reason, you may just notice his teeth on your hands. Never ignore nibbling behaviors in dogs, no matter what you suspect the true cause is. Whether you choose to use chew toys or the assistance of a certified canine trainer, it is crucial never to allow mouthing behavior to continue.