Puppy biting is inevitable. Yet, it is extremely frustrating and painful since puppies tend to have very sharp teeth. Understanding why your puppy bites and how to prevent it is important. With the correct training and lots of patience, your puppy will learn how to be gentle with his mouth. Read on to find out the reason behind puppies biting and ways to stop puppy biting.
Why Do Puppies Bite?
Puppies usually bite because of teething, during play, or simply because your puppy is exploring. Biting is how puppies grab things, engage with their environment, and interact with you. Puppies start to lose their baby teeth around 4 months of age. When puppies start getting their adult teeth, their jaws are sore and irritated. To relieve the pain, puppies bite and chew on things. Biting can also be accompanied by growling and tugging during playtime. Normally, puppy biting will stop when he has his full set of teeth around 7 to 8 months of age.
How To Stop Puppy Biting?
Be Firm
Say ‘’No’’ firmly, or “Leave It” firmly, whenever your puppy bites. This will communicate to your puppy that you are not happy with his behavior. Remember to remain calm while keeping your voice firm and assertive at the same time.
Redirect your Puppy
You can use this training method to redirect your puppy’s attention away from where he is biting you. Redirection is when you divert him to something that he can bite, like a bully stick or rope toy. This will not only teach him what is and is not appropriate to bite on, but will also help relieve the irritation caused by teething Bombtech Golf. Keep a chew toy handy during playtime to help teach him what he should and should not chew. If your puppy bites, be firm and wait for him to calm down before offering him teething toys.
Reward Good Behavior
Toys or treats are great to praise good behavior that your puppy displays. Positive reinforcement will make sure your puppy knows what is expected of him. Playing fetch or with other toys will make training fun. It will allow your puppy to take a break from biting and chewing.
Socialize Your Puppy
Socialization will teach your puppy normal dog behaviors. You can start when your puppy is as young as 8 weeks old. He will be exposed to other puppies, people, new situations, and other pets. Along with socialization, daily exercise will keep your puppy fit and prevent any boredom. You can take your puppy out on a walk or play with him so that his mind remains diverted. A well exercised puppy will be much less destructive at home.
Puppy biting is an unavoidable behavior that comes with puppyhood. With lots of patience and consistency, your puppy will learn what he can and cannot bite or chew. Remember to be consistent in praising good behavior, keep your puppy well exercised, and have lots of durable chew toys handy for him to chew on. If you have tried everything or feel it is getting to be too much, you can always hire a professional dog trainer to train your puppy not to bite.
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