Let's Talk About Puppy Biting

Let's talk puppy biting!

It's one of the most complained about puppy behaviors after house soiling. Puppies use their mouths to explore their world. It's up to us as their humans to teach them what is an appropriate use of their mouth and what is not. 

Some puppy biting is normal and usually lessens as the puppy matures. You can minimize puppy biting by meeting your puppy's needs and using smart management to build desired habits. 

Here are some things to consider when working to reduce puppy biting. 

1. PHYSICAL EXERCISE Puppies need a good mix of high stimulation exercise such as play, chase and fetch, and low stimulation exercise such as walks, swimming or hiking. A tired puppy is a good puppy. A puppy that is bored will find ways to entertain themselves. 

2. MENTAL EXERCISE This type of exercise includes things that dogs would naturally want to do. For example, digging, shredding, sniffing, chewing and searching. By giving your dog plenty of opportunity to do these behaviors in a constructive way it will eliminate your dog doing them in a destructive way. Use toys that allow your dog to chew and tear. Obedience training is wonderful mental exercise. Playing games such as hide and go seek is another way to mentally exercise your dog. 

3. OVER TIRED Just as a puppy needs lots of physical and mental exercise, they also need lots of rest. If your puppy crashes and sleeps after being particularly bitey, it's likely they were over tired. Over tired puppies can sometimes get hyperactive. Be sure to give your puppy plenty of nap time and quiet time away from the family. Over stimulated puppies loose the ability to play nice and can become extra bitey. 

4. OVER-AROUSED If play time goes too long or becomes too exciting it can be hard for puppies to remember not to bite. Using management techniques when playing will help to prevent over stimulation. An example of a management technique would be asking your puppy to sit before you throw a toy or stopping play every once in a while for some calm petting or a short training session. If your puppy is playing and becomes increasingly bitey, it could be that he's becoming over-aroused. 

5. HUNGRY OR TEETHING Many young puppies need three meals a day. Making sure your puppy is getting adequate amounts of food can help cut down on puppies that bite or eat things they shouldn't. When your puppy's  adult teeth are pushing in it can cause their gums to be sore and biting is a way your puppy tries to relieve the pressure. You can provide cold items such as a frozen Kong filled with treats or other chewing options and direct your puppy to chew on appropriate items. Teething is usually complete by 6-8 months of age. 

6. DEFENSIVE BITING When we miss our dog's cues that say "don't do that", the dog might take further action to stop what he deems unpleasant. During petting, grooming, or play, there may be certain things your dog doesn't like. Your pup might quickly learn that biting, gets you to stop. I highly recommend working with a professional dog trainer to desensitize your dog to routine handling and care. A puppy that bites defensively can turn into a dangerous dog. 

All puppies bite to some degree. It's our job to teach them how to use their mouths properly and that human skin is very sensitive. Redirecting your puppy when he bites or giving him rest and a time out away from the family is usually most effective. If you think your puppy's biting is over the top, talk with a trainer on management techniques and training. 

❤ Katie Watterson

Do you have a question for Katie? Submit your question(s) to info@homemadepuppies.com.

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Thank you!

Don't forget to catch Katie's blog from last week: https://www.homemadepuppies.com/how-to-limit-excessive-dog-barking

*As always Katie's advice is on this blog are only meant to be used as tips and should never replace your veterinarian's advice. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your dog's health.