Behavior Problem Solving

Stopping Puppy Nipping & Mouthing

Behavior Problem Solving

Overview

Puppy biting is normal and peaks around 3–5 months. The goal is bite inhibition (soft mouth) plus a redirect to an appropriate outlet.

Why it matters

A puppy who learns bite inhibition is a much safer adult dog, even if they never bite again.

Watch: demonstration

[VIDEO PLACEHOLDER] Redirect demo: puppy nips hand, handler yelps softly, offers a toy, praises for tug. — trainer to attach a video via the admin uploader.

Step by step

  1. The instant teeth touch skin, give a small "ouch!" and stop all interaction for 5 seconds.

  2. Redirect to a toy — reward hard tugging on the toy.

  3. Have chews and toys within reach at all times.

  4. Meet the puppy's exercise and sleep needs — an overtired puppy nips more (they get "zoomie-bitey").

  5. Do not use your hands as toys during play.

  6. For hard bites, briefly leave the room (10 seconds) — the fun ends when teeth touch skin.

[IMAGE PLACEHOLDER] Correct tug-toy grip so hands are safely away from teeth. — trainer to upload one or more still images.

Common mistakes

  • Rough-housing with hands — teaches the puppy that hands are toys.

  • Yelling or scruff-shaking — increases arousal and biting.

  • Ignoring puppy sleep needs — overtired puppies are biting puppies.

Practice this week

Every nip this week is a training opportunity: pause, redirect, reward.