How do I train my puppy to control their biting?
Written by
Elin Eriksson
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Training your puppy not to bite starts with understanding your puppy's instinct to bite. Just like babies use their hands to explore the world, puppies use their mouths. Their chewing/biting peaks when they are teething, usually around the 3- to 6-month mark. If your puppy isn't trained not to nip when he is small, his playful nips can turn into a dangerous habit.
Gentle Mouthing Acceptance
- Allow soft mouthing during calm play sessions to teach skin sensitivity
- Immediately freeze and say 'Ouch' when pressure becomes uncomfortable
- Resume play only after 10 seconds of calm behavior
Time-Out Implementation
- Use isolation or tethering for 30-60s after hard bites
- Choose method based on puppy's age and environment
- Return only when puppy sits calmly for 5 continuous seconds
Consistency among family members enhances the effectiveness of training. Puppies get confused if one person allows mouthing while another punishes it. All family members should meet weekly to agree on rules and responses (children may join, under supervision). Congruent responses quickly establish clear expectations.
Improving gradually over 8 to 12 weeks produces lasting results. Let your puppy bite your skin at Level 2 and then, within a week or two, drop down to Level 1. Many puppies will stop mouthing you gently within six to 12 weeks. Don't rush through stages; otherwise, your puppy will slip back when visiting the vet.
If you see growling every day or broken skin, seek professional help. Certified trainers handle fear-based bite prevention and resource guarding. Early training prevents small problems from turning into dangerous ones. Never bite the owner yourself. No physical punishment! It makes biting worse!
Read the full article: Puppy Bite Inhibition: Essential Training Guide
