Why Do Puppies Bite?


Why Do Puppies Bite?

Understanding and Managing Puppy Nipping Behavior

Puppy biting is a completely normal part of development. Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and biting is how they play, interact, and even relieve teething discomfort.

Top Reasons Puppies Bite:

  1. Teething Discomfort
    Puppies begin teething around 3–4 weeks and continue until about 6 months. Biting helps soothe their sore gums.

  2. Play & Exploration
    Puppies bite during play with their littermates and humans. It’s a natural way of learning how hard they can bite (also called "bite inhibition").

  3. Overstimulation or Tiredness
    Like toddlers, puppies get cranky when tired. Overstimulated pups may nip more than usual.

  4. Attention-Seeking
    If biting gets a reaction, they may repeat the behavior to get your attention—even if it's negative.

How to Curb Puppy Biting

  • Offer Chew Toys: Always redirect biting to appropriate toys, especially during teething phases.

  • Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behavior and gentle play with praise or treats.

  • Avoid Rough Play: Games like tug or wrestling can increase excitement and nipping.

  • Give Breaks: If your puppy gets bitey, give them a short timeout to reset.

  • Teach Bite Inhibition: Yelp or say “Ouch!” in a high-pitched voice, then pause play briefly. This mimics how other puppies react.

Be Patient!
Puppy biting fades with time, consistent training, and maturity. Always stay calm and positive—your pup is learning every day.


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