How to Prevent Your Puppy From Nipping and Biting

While Shark Week might be thrilling on TV, we certainly don’t want our puppies taking a bite out of anything they shouldn’t! Puppies are naturally curious and explore their surroundings with their mouths. Their sharp little teeth can be a challenge, especially when they’re nipping and biting. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to guide your puppy away from these behaviors and help them learn what’s appropriate to chew on.

1. Puppy-Proof Your Home

Start by creating a safe and controlled environment for your puppy. Remove anything that might tempt them to bite or chew, and clear your floors and low shelves of items they might find enticing. Use baby gates to confine them to a smaller, more manageable area, minimizing their exposure to potential hazards.

2. Provide “Legal” Chew Toys

Equip your puppy with a variety of approved chew toys. Durable options like Kongs, rugged chew toys, and Nylabones are excellent choices. Avoid using items that look similar to things you don’t want them to chew on, as this can confuse them and lead to more nipping.

3. Wear Tight-Legged Pants

Puppies are often drawn to the movement of loose clothing around their ankles. Opt for tighter-fitting pants to reduce movement and minimize their interest in your legs. This simple adjustment can help steer them away from nipping at your clothes.

4. Be Ready to Redirect

Always have a chew toy or distraction ready, such as a flirt pole, to redirect play away from your hands, feet, and legs. When you notice your puppy heading towards your feet or legs, promptly offer them the flirt pole or another toy instead. This helps teach them what is acceptable to bite and keeps their focus on appropriate items.

5. Ensure Adequate Exercise and Stimulation

Puppies have a lot of energy, and if they don’t have a constructive outlet, they might channel it into nipping and biting. Provide regular walks and mental stimulation to keep them tired and content. A well-exercised puppy is less likely to engage in unwanted behaviors.

6. Recognize Their Limits

Be mindful of your puppy’s energy levels and how they respond to excitement. Overstimulation can lead to increased nipping and biting. Observe how your puppy reacts as they become more excited and adjust their playtime accordingly to prevent them from reaching a tipping point.

7. Manage the “Witching Hour”

Most puppies have certain times of the day when they are more hyperactive and prone to nipping. During these periods, offer them a stuffed Kong or another engaging toy to keep them occupied and reduce their tendency to bite.

8. Invest in Training

Training is crucial for your puppy’s development. Begin with basic commands like Focus, Sit, and Down to build a strong bond and improve their behavior. Puppies are quick learners, and with consistent practice, they will begin to understand and follow your guidance.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce your puppy’s nipping and biting behaviors, helping them grow into a well-behaved and happy adult dog. For more tips and support with your puppy’s training, visit Legend Acres and let us assist you on this exciting journey!