If you have a puppy, you've surely felt their sharp little teeth on your hands, furniture, or shoes. While it can be frustrating, biting is a normal part of their development. Instead of getting upset, use this phase to teach good habits!
Why Do Puppies Bite?
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Exploration: Puppies discover the world through their mouths.
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Teething: Between 3-6 months, baby teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge, causing discomfort.
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Play: It’s their natural way to interact with humans and other dogs.
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Stress or boredom: An understimulated puppy will find their own entertainment (like your shoes).
How to Redirect Biting
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Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
Offer durable toys like rubber bones or frozen teething rings to soothe sore gums. -
Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise and reward your puppy when they chew their toys instead of your hands. They’ll associate good behavior with treats! -
Teach the "No Bite" Signal
If they bite too hard, yelp "Ow!" and stop playing briefly. This mimics how puppies learn bite inhibition from littermates. -
Avoid Rough Hand Play
Never encourage chasing or biting your hands. Use toys to channel their energy appropriately. -
Offer Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy. Walks, playtime, and puzzle toys reduce destructive chewing.
Protecting Your Belongings
✔ Use natural deterrents (like diluted apple cider vinegar) on furniture edges.
✔ Keep tempting items out of reach.
✔ If they chew something off-limits, calmly swap it for an approved toy.
Conclusion
Puppy biting is normal, but with patience and the right strategies, your pup will learn what’s okay to chew. Turn this phase into a bonding opportunity—soon, they’ll outgrow it!