The Bitey End
Puppy Biting: Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It
If you're sharing your home with a new puppy, chances are you've already felt those tiny shark teeth. Puppy biting is one of the most common concerns for new dog owners—and for good reason. It can hurt, it's relentless, and it often catches people off guard. The good news? It's normal, it's not forever, and there are things you can do to help.
Why Puppies Bite
Puppies use their mouths to explore the world. Just like human babies, they go through a teething stage where chewing helps relieve discomfort. But mouthing and biting aren’t just about sore gums. Puppies also bite when they’re excited, frustrated, overtired, or just trying to initiate play.
Puppies learn form their mum and litter mates about how hard is too hard by playing with their siblings. If one pup bites too hard, the other might yelp and stop playing. That’s how they begin to learn bite inhibition—how to control the strength of their bite. When we bring puppies into our homes, it becomes our job to continue teaching them that skill.
It Hurts when those teefs make contact
Puppy teeth are needle sharp and get a reaction when they nip, whether it’s from a littermate or a human. That helps them learn what’s acceptable. Unfortunately, that also means it hurts when your pup decides your hand is their new chew toy. It’s not aggression—it’s development.
Redirection is Key
One of the most effective ways to manage biting is simple redirection. When your puppy starts biting at your hands, clothes, or ankles, gently positively interrupt (use a kissing noise or ‘pup pup’) and offer something more appropriate: a chew toy, a soft stuffed toy, a puppy-safe chew, or even a frozen Kong. It helps them learn what’s okay to sink their teeth into and what’s not.
Keep a variety of textures and options nearby so you’re not scrambling mid-bite. Some puppies love soft toys, others prefer harder chews. Trial and error is part of the process.
When Biting Gets Worse
You might notice your puppy gets especially nippy at certain times of day—often in the evening or after arousing play. Puppies are more likely to bite when they’re tired, overstimulated, bored, or frustrated. Think of it like a toddler throwing a tantrum before naptime.
If biting suddenly ramps up, check in with what your pup might be feeling. Do they need a break? A nap? A change of pace? Sometimes a quiet, cozy spot to rest is the best “training” you can offer.
Be consistent
We don’t just want the biting to stop—we want our dogs to learn how to be gentle with their mouths. That’s what bite inhibition is about. It’s not something puppies are born with; it’s something they learn with guidance and consistency.
Make sure you all respond in the same way to biting and offer appropriate outlets, make sure all family members understand why your puppy is biting, offer clear responses and guidance. Pause the play, get up, or gently move away. The message is: “When you bite too hard, the fun stops.”
It’s Not Forever
Every puppy goes through this stage. It can be tough, frustrating, and sometimes overwhelming—but it will get better. With patience, redirection, and a good understanding of why it’s happening, you can help your puppy learn how to use their mouth politely and safely.
If you're struggling, you're not alone. Reach out to a qualified, force-free trainer who understands the developmental stages puppies go through. It’s okay to ask for help, and often a few small changes make a big difference.
Biting is just one part of puppyhood. With time, consistency, and lots of appropriate outlets, your puppy will outgrow the land shark phase—and you’ll both come out stronger for it.
