Ah, puppies. Cute as a button, full of love, and... part-time land sharks?
If your little fluffball keeps sinking their teeth into your hands, feet, clothes, or even your furniture — don’t panic. Puppy biting is completely normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it.
Here’s how to survive the bitey phase and teach your pup some proper manners (without the drama).
🦷 Why Do Puppies Bite?
Puppies use their mouths to explore the world — it’s how they learn. They bite when they’re:
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Teething (hello sore gums!)
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Playing
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Excited
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Tired or overstimulated
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Trying to get your attention
The key is to show them what’s okay to bite — and what’s off-limits.
🐾 Step 1: Redirect to a Toy
When your puppy bites your hand, calmly say “No” or “Ouch,” then immediately offer a chew toy instead.
This teaches them: “Teeth on humans = boring. Teeth on toys = fun!”
Keep a few soft chew toys nearby at all times, especially during play. If they’re in full zoomie mode, a rope toy or tug is perfect for channeling that energy.
🧸 Step 2: Offer the Right Chew Toys
Puppies need to chew — especially when teething — so give them things they can safely chomp on. Try:
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Soft rubber toys
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Frozen carrot sticks
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Puppy teething rings
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Plush toys with squeakers
Rotate toys to keep them interesting and always supervise chewing time.
🚫 Step 3: Don’t Play Rough with Hands
It’s tempting to wrestle or play with your hands — but this teaches your puppy that skin is a toy. Instead, use tug toys, flirt poles, or balls to keep a little distance during play.
If your pup gets overexcited and nippy, calmly pause the play or walk away. This teaches them that biting = end of fun.
⏸️ Step 4: Take a Break When Needed
Some pups bite more when they’re tired or overstimulated. If they’re getting wild and won’t settle, pop them in their crate or pen with a chew to help them wind down.
Think of it as a puppy "reset button," not a punishment.
👨🏫 Step 5: Teach Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition means your puppy learns to be gentle with their mouth — even during play. You can teach this by:
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Letting them mouth your hand during calm play.
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If they bite too hard, yelp or say “Ouch!” and stop the game.
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Wait a few seconds, then try again.
Over time, they’ll learn to control the strength of their bite — super important as they grow.
🐶 Bonus Tips for Success
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Consistency is everything. Everyone in the household needs to respond the same way.
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Be calm, not angry. Puppies don’t bite out of spite — they just don’t know better (yet).
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Praise good behavior. When your pup licks or plays gently, let them know you love it!
When to Get Extra Help
If your puppy’s biting is aggressive, drawing blood, or escalating despite your efforts, it’s worth chatting to a professional dog trainer or vet — just to rule out pain or deeper behavior issues.
Final Thought: It Will Get Better!
Puppy biting can feel like a never-ending phase, but with the right approach, it usually fades by 5–6 months of age. Stay patient, stay consistent, and keep those chew toys handy — calmer, bite-free days are just around the corner!
Need chew toys, training treats, or a comfy crate for downtime? We’ve got everything you need to help your pup through the bitey phase with less stress (and fewer band-aids). 🐾