PUPPY BEHAVIOR

What to Do About Puppy Biting and Chewing

Mouthing is normal, especially during play and teething. Consistent management teaches your puppy what is appropriate to bite.

Redirect and reinforce

Freeze your hands instead of pulling them away quickly
Offer an appropriate chew or toy
Praise and continue play when your puppy chooses the toy
End interaction briefly if hard biting continues
Resume calmly and repeat the same response

Prevent the bitey moments

Keep toys within reach, use gates to prevent access to tempting objects, and schedule naps. Puppies often become extra mouthy when overtired, overstimulated, hungry, or in need of a potty break.

Avoid fear and conflict

Do not hit, alpha-roll, yell at, or hold the puppy’s mouth shut. These methods can increase fear or turn biting into a more intense interaction.

Get help for concerning behavior

Seek qualified help if biting is frequent and intense, causes significant injury, occurs around guarding, or is paired with stiff posture, freezing, or sudden behavior changes.

The simple takeaway

Make the right choice easy: manage access, provide good chew options, reinforce gentle play, and protect your puppy’s sleep.

Health and safety note: This guide is educational and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or a qualified reward-based trainer. Contact your veterinarian promptly about illness, injury, pain, ingestion of a hazardous item, or a sudden behavior change.