Introduction

If you've ever been around a toddler, you know the struggle, sticky hands grabbing at everything, exploring the world by shoving objects straight into their mouths. Puppies are no different, just like human babies, puppies use their mouths to gather vital information about their surroundings. Their mouths help them distinguish between textures, temperatures, and even different taste sensations. What makes puppies unique, however, is their strong connection between the mouth and nose, making chewing an experience that combines both taste and scent.

Let’s be honest, while we understand why puppies bite, no one enjoys being on the receiving end of those needle-like teeth. So, how do we learn how to stop puppy biting while ensuring they still explore the world in a healthy way?

Managing the “Oral Phase”

Sigmund Freud identified a developmental stage called the “Oral Phase,” and puppies go through a similar experience. The key to Puppy Biting Training is management and training. Since you are the responsible adult in this situation, it’s up to you to create an environment where your puppy learns appropriate behaviors.

Here’s the catch: You might have unintentionally taught your puppy that biting is okay!

How? By Reinforcing the Behavior

Puppies learn through Positive Reinforcement for Puppies, which means they repeat behaviors that bring a desired outcome. If you react to their biting with sudden movement, loud noises, or even waving your hands in their face, your puppy might see this as a fun game rather than a correction. If they enjoy your reaction, they will continue to bite.

Whoops!

So What Should You Do Instead?

Step 1: Management

Before teaching your puppy the right way to behave, start by preventing unwanted behavior.

Ask yourself these key questions:

1. What body part is your puppy targeting?

• Hands/arms?

• Feet/ankles/legs?

• Face?

• Everywhere they can reach?

2. When does the biting happen most?

• Morning or evening?

• Before or after meals?

• During playtime?

• When you try to pet them?

• While putting on a collar/harness?

• When you’re sitting still or walking across the room?

3. Where does it happen?

• In their play area?

• Under the kitchen table?

• On the couch?

• Roaming freely?

4. Who gets bitten the most?

• Mom or Dad?

• Older vs. younger children?

• House guests?

Step 2: Implementing Management Strategies

Once you’ve identified patterns in your puppy’s biting behavior, you can take proactive steps to manage it. For example:

• If your puppy nips during play, redirect them to a chew toy before they bite.

• If they bite when excited, pause playtime to help them settle down.

• If they go for your hands, teach them to “touch” your palm with their nose instead.

• If they get mouthy when being pet, wait for calm behavior before giving affection.

Will I Have to Manage This Forever?

No! Management is just the first step. As your puppy matures and learns appropriate behavior, you’ll gradually transition to training techniques that reinforce positive interactions.

You’ve already started laying the groundwork by teaching cues like Touch and Permission to Pet. Keep practicing, and soon your puppy will understand how to engage with you in a fun yet gentle way.

Struggling with puppy biting? A professional trainer can help you fine-tune your approach for lasting success. Keep training, and enjoy the journey. 

Author bio:

Written by The Homeschool Dog Expert Team

Our team of certified trainers and behaviorists brings over 50 years of combined experience, and every expert is personally vetted, Fear Free certified, and deeply committed to helping dogs (and their people) thrive at home. Need help with your pup? Talk to a dog expert today

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