Puppy Biting Got You Bleeding? Here’s How to Stop It
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting—until those tiny teeth start tearing into your hands, feet, and favorite socks. Biting is completely normal for puppies, but it’s something they must learn to control early on.
In this post, we’ll walk you through why puppies bite, how to stop puppy biting quickly and kindly, and what not to do.
Why Puppies Bite in the First Place
Before you can fix the problem, it helps to understand it. Puppies bite because:
- They’re teething – Just like human babies, puppies chew to soothe sore gums.
- They explore with their mouths – Puppies use their mouths to learn about the world.
- They’re playing – Biting is often part of rough play with littermates, and they don’t know our skin is more sensitive.
- They’re overstimulated or overtired – Just like kids, a tired puppy gets cranky.
How to Stop Puppy Biting: Step-by-Step
1. Use a High-Pitched Yelp
If your puppy bites you, let out a high-pitched “Ouch!”—like a littermate would. Then stop play immediately. This teaches bite inhibition by showing them biting ends the fun.
2. Redirect to a Toy
Keep chew toys within arm’s reach. When your puppy starts biting, gently replace your hand or foot with a toy. Praise them when they chomp the toy instead.
3. Use Time-Outs
If yelping and redirection don’t work, calmly remove yourself or your puppy from the room for 30–60 seconds. No attention = no reward.
4. Stick to a Routine
Puppies often bite more when they’re overtired or under-stimulated. Regular meals, naps, play, and potty breaks help reduce biting due to crankiness or boredom.
5. Teach “Leave It” and “Drop It” Early
Basic obedience training helps curb nipping. Use treats and positive reinforcement to teach self-control commands.
What Not to Do
- ❌ Don’t hit or yell at your puppy – It damages trust and can increase fear-based biting.
- ❌ Don’t let biting become a game – Avoid waving your hands or feet around like a toy.
- ❌ Don’t give inconsistent signals – Everyone in the household must respond to biting the same way.
When to Worry About Puppy Biting
If your puppy:
- Growls or snarls while biting,
- Bites hard and doesn’t respond to training,
- Or is older than 6 months and still biting regularly,
…it may be time to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist. Some biting could be fear-based or anxiety-driven.
Final Thoughts: Be Patient and Consistent
Stopping puppy biting takes time, consistency, and calm leadership. The good news? Most puppies outgrow this stage by 6–8 months when guided with positive, clear training.
Stick with it—and protect those fingers in the meantime!
Read more – blog posts at wunderpups.com