Puppy biting is one of the most common (and frustrating) challenges for new pet parents. Those little teeth are sharp, and while nipping is normal, it can quickly become a problem if not addressed early.
The good news? You don’t need harsh methods to teach your puppy to stop biting. With patience and positive training, you can redirect their behavior and protect your hands, shoes, and furniture.
🐾 Why Puppies Bite
Teething: Just like babies, puppies chew to soothe sore gums.
Exploring: Puppies learn about the world with their mouths.
Play Behavior: In the litter, puppies bite each other to play and test boundaries.
Attention Seeking: Sometimes, they bite because it gets a reaction.
Gentle Ways to Stop Puppy Biting
1. Redirect With Toys
Keep chew toys handy and swap your hand or clothing for a toy.
Frozen rubber toys or wet cloths are great for teething relief.
2. Use the “Ouch!” Method
When your puppy bites too hard, say “ouch!” in a high-pitched but calm voice.
Stop playing immediately for a few seconds.
This mimics how littermates yelp and teaches bite inhibition.
3. Reward Gentle Play
Praise and treat your puppy when they lick, nibble softly, or play without biting.
Rewarding calm behavior works best when you use the right snacks — here are the best training treats for puppies
Positive reinforcement encourages repeat behavior.
4. Practice Short Training Sessions
Teach commands like “leave it” and “drop it”.
Use treats and consistency to reinforce self-control.
5. Provide Enough Exercise
Many puppies bite because they’re full of energy.
Walks, fetch, and playtime help burn energy in healthy ways.
Mistakes to Avoid
Encouraging rough play often backfires — it’s listed in our top 10 puppy training mistakes you’ll want to avoid
Don’t yell or hit — it creates fear, not learning.
Don’t use your hands as toys — this confuses your puppy.
Don’t encourage rough play — tugging with bare hands teaches biting is okay.
🐾 FAQs
When will my puppy stop biting?
Most puppies reduce biting significantly between 6–8 months, especially with training.
Is biting a sign of aggression?
Not usually. Puppy biting is normal. True aggression shows as growling, stiff posture, or biting with intent.
Should I use bitter sprays?
They can help deter chewing on furniture but don’t replace training.
Final Thoughts
Puppy biting is temporary, but how you respond shapes your dog’s behavior for life. With gentle redirection, rewards, and patience, your puppy will learn that hands are for petting — not for chewing.
This article is part of our Complete Puppy Training Guide, packed with everything you need to raise a well-behaved pup
What’s your go-to trick for stopping puppy bites? Share in the comments — and subscribe for more puppy parenting tips!
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