Why do puppies bite?

Dog owners have been trying to stop puppies from biting without knowing why puppies bite in the first place. By understanding why your puppy bites will be the first step in training him not to bite.

The main reason why puppies bite is as a result of Puppy Teething. Puppies’ jaws are weak and as a result of new teeth, they gnaw, mouth and even play-bite to soothe the gums around the teeth. This combination of weak jaws with extremely sharp, needle-like teeth, can result in numerous play-bites which, although painful, seldom cause serious harm. The developing pup, therefore, receives ample feedback regarding the force of its bites before it develops strong jaws - which could inflict considerable injury. The greater the pup’s opportunity to play-bite with people, other dogs and other animals, the higher the dog’s bite inhibition as an adult.

Puppy Socialization

Proper puppy socialization is important when teaching your dog bite inhibition. Your puppy is a blank slate and needs to be taught proper behavior around humans and other animals. Once she is taught proper behavior, it will carry into adulthood.

For puppies that don't get older with the advantage of regular and frequent interaction with other dogs and other animals, the responsibility of teaching bite inhibition lies with the owner. All puppies like to play by being mouthy and biting or chewing anything they will get their sharp little teeth into. These sharp teeth are the rationale that it's crucial for puppies to find out bite inhibition (controlling the force of their bite) during the primary few months of life.

Normally, this is often learned naturally and effectively through contact with mom and other littermates. If the puppy bites mom during nursing, mom can roll the puppy over to correct it or simply rise up and walk off. Most young puppies do not aggressively bite. If you've got an aggressive puppy, you ought to give very serious consideration about keeping such a dog. Puppy aggression may lead to dangerous behavior as an adult dog if not properly handled.

Next, the owner must realize that the puppy doesn't skills to act around humans. The puppy has not had much life experience outside its interactions with its canine family. Proper socialization techniques are crucial at this stage of your puppy’s development. You can learn these puppy socialization techniques in “Dog Bite Prevention”, which is part of our Puppy Health & Training Package.

How to train a puppy to stop biting:

The first and best way to start teaching your puppy to stop it biting is to do what his littermates would have done were they in the same position. Puppies usually learn bite inhibition from their mothers and littermates. When a puppy bites its littermates, they will yelp and go away. This same method can be applied by you. As soon as your puppy starts to bite, you should give a loud, yelping OUCH! Glare at the pup, rise up and move away. This way you can start ignoring behaviors you don't like. Be persistent with this method and advise your family to do the same.

If your pup does not change, then you can start applying the ‘‘Time Out ‘‘method. You just leave the room or take him into his crate.

Another way to use this method is this; when your puppy bites, say "no" and gently hold its mouth shut. This will teach him to stay his mouth shut. Since the puppy is a social creature, saying no, yelping, holding his mouth or walking away will teach him that he will lose his playmate. An important fact about the above two methods is to maintain eye contact with your pup when saying "no" and also watching the tone of your voice. Your tone should be in the form of a command, sharp and to the point. Emitting a growling tone will convey the message in his language.

Your duty as a puppy owner is to plan a response to active puppy teething that will soften the impact on you and your possessions. The best way to do this is to provide your pup with better chewing alternatives instead of your fingers and limbs. You can buy toys like hard rubber balls, sterilized or nylon bones and knotted ropes from pet supply stores. In a low voice you can say "no" then remove her into a neutral area where you can give her any of the above stated toys or others to play with.

Praising your puppy whenever she behaves well is one of the best ways to teach her what's right. She will surely want to continue getting the praise. So when she plays nicely and appropriately, praise the action.

Another method is teaching the "off" command.

You get a puppy dry food. Hold a handful and close your hand with it then say "off." Note what will happen. After a few seconds, if your puppy has not touched your hand, say "take it" and give him a piece of food. The lesson you are teaching him here is that "off’’ means not to touch.

It is important to give your puppy daily exercise and give him enough playtime. It is advisable to have a specific daily playing time. Your puppy will always look forward to this period and will be less likely to seek attention at any time, thus limiting his biting behavior. Also, you will be distracted his attention from biting by teaching him new tricks and taking him for a walk. You will be establishing a great bond with him doing this as well. Teach all your family members not to play any rough games like tug-of-war or wrestling, which may encourage aggressive behavior like biting. Also teach them to be consistent with the "no biting" rule. With everyone working together, you will achieve a well-behaved, well-adjusted puppy and, ultimately, adult dog.