How to Stop Puppy from Biting and Nipping?

Dogs are the most friendly pets to own. They are cute, they are special beings, they feel guilty for wrong doings and they grin, play and give out love. Be it any breed, every dog has certain similar needs especially during their training and developing years as a pup.

One of the issues dog owners face is puppy nipping. And a majority of them don't really know as to how to train a dog to stop biting. You are at the right place if you want to know about the ways to stop puppy biting and teach your dog in the best manner possible.

How To Stop Your Puppy From Biting

#1. No Hands Please

Puppy nipping should be dealt in a safer way. Teach your dog to bite onto toys or teethers and chew sticks. Don't make use of your hands because they look cute while nipping. What if the teeth just get into your skin?

(Image Courtesy: YouTube)

#2. How To Train Puppies To Stop The Game?

Don't give your pup the impression that he/ she can easily keep nibbling you hand, ear or other parts of the body. As soon as they start the game, it's fine to play and get the energy out. But if they start getting aggressive you should know what to do. Just gently back off.

#3. Understand Their Behaviour

One of the best ways to stop puppy biting is to understand their biting behavior and act accordingly. Puppies don't always know how hard they nibble and that their playful attitude hurts others. Stop playing with them or give out a high pitched yelp and that's how you can stop puppy nipping.

(Image Courtesy: Behavior)

More on: How to Train a Puppy

#4. Don't Wrongly Train Or Teach Your Dog

This gives out an unclear message while you are training your puppy. If they keep biting you during a period of 15 minutes, you've withdrawn to play almost three times, don't do that again. Just stop. If he/ she licks you for consoling, praise or reward them too. Offer positive interactions if they start to comprehend the training sessions.

#5. Encourage The Pup To Play With Other Vaccinated Dogs

This way you teach him/ her the sense of belongingness. And when to stop biting and how much is acceptable, is naturally learned while they play with other similar age pups.

(Image Courtesy: Dog Time)

#6. Engage Them In Distinctive Activities

You can not only indulge the dog with their favorite chewy sticks/ bone and toys, but also involve them in other forms of activities. Opt for a play that doesn't involve puppy nipping like playing fetch or tug-of-war etc.

#7. Taste Deterrents

One can make use of taste deterrents to avoid puppy nipping. This way you can effectively teach your dog to stop biting as he reacts to the taste and gets away. 

(Image Courtesy: Pets Nest)

Puppy nipping goes on till the age of 9 months to 1 year, and you can start with the training by the time they are 4-5 months old. Whatever way you adopt, just make sure to not use fearing techniques for teaching your dog. Don't hit them or point fingers. Aggression at times brings out even more intensive behaviors. Also, don't discourage their routine entertainment activities.

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(Featured Image Courtesy: American Kennel Club)