How do I stop my puppy from biting?
How do I stop my puppy from biting?
- Redirect with toys
If they want to play and go for your fingers or toes, try placing a favorite toy in front of them to see if they’ll play with that instead.
- Appropriate amounts of physical and mental exercise
Puppies with pent up energy are more likely to nip. Get some of that energy out with fun and games!
- Teach them how to relax, and reward for calmness
Utilize a method such as Dr. Karen Overall’s Relaxation Protocol or a similar method to teach your pup that calmness gets them what they want. See kikopup’s video below!
- Proper socialization
Get them some proper puppy and human socialization! If you are not sure how to do this, feel free to speak with one of our trainers.
- Create boundaries with time outs
When all else fails and the teeth hit the skin, calmly and gently place pup in her play pen for a 60 second time out. Wait until she is calm, and take her out. If teeth hit the skin again, back in she goes.
You might also be interested in how to teach your dog to come when their name is called.