Managing Biting in Puppies

When puppies play with each other, they bite. That is just a natural part of growing up and learning how hard to bite when serious or in jest! However, this is only appropriate between puppies and dogs. It is never appropriate for your dog to bite you, even in play. You must establish the fact that you are the pack leader and maintain your command at all times!

Obviously, if you realize that certain behaviors on your part encourage your puppy to bite, you must avoid those behaviors. Play with your puppy calmly and positively, and always maintain your position as the calm, dependable leader of your pack. If you allow your puppy to bite you when he is small, he is likely to challenge your dominance later, and that will be a big problem.

If your puppy bites you while playing, it is very important that you withdraw your affection and companionship. Do not continue playing with a puppy that bites. Say, "No!" firmly, hand the puppy a chew toy, and leave. Puppies and dogs love to be with their best friend (you), and they hate being alone. If you withdraw your attention every time your puppy bites, he will soon learn that biting does not produce positive results.

If your puppy is persistent, as some types of dogs are with this behavior, you may want to try a cool down time. Calmly take your puppy to his crate, help him inside, give him a toy, and go about your business for fifteen minutes to half an hour. It is very important that you not treat this as a punishment and that your puppy not feel frightened or threatened by this time-out.

You want your puppy to like his crate. It is a good, safe place to rest and wait when nothing is happening. It is also a good place to calm down and regroup. When enough time has passed and your puppy seems to have calmed down, let him out and go on with your day.

By following these steps in a consistent manner, you help your puppy grow up into a calm, reliable, satisfying companion.

For more about dog training and behavior, you may enjoy:

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