How Can I Get My Puppy To Stop Nipping: No More Marks With These Tips!

“Why is my puppy nipping so much?” This common concern arises from puppies’ natural behaviors and their developmental stages. Puppies have a strong instinct to explore the world using their mouths, especially during the teething phase, which typically lasts for 2-3 months. During this period, their gums may feel uncomfortable, leading them to chew and nip as a way to alleviate the discomfort. Additionally, puppies often engage in rough play with their siblings, using their teeth to initiate play and gain attention. It’s important to note that some dog breeds, such as herding breeds, are predisposed to nipping behaviors as they have a strong herding instinct and may instinctively nip, herd, or chase small, fast-moving objects or people. Understanding these natural tendencies can help you manage and train your puppy effectively. (Date: June 14, 2018, is provided, but it’s not clear how it relates to the topic, so it has been omitted in this rewrite.)

“Will my hands ever be free from the bite marks inflicted by my playful puppy? Fortunately, yes! Puppy nipping tends to subside as your furry companion matures, typically around the age of 7 months. At this stage, when all their adult teeth have fully emerged, and they’ve gained a better understanding of how to engage with toys and suitable chew items, you can expect a significant decrease in their biting behavior. (Information as of September 9, 2020).”

Training a puppy to stop nipping is a common concern for new dog owners. Fortunately, there are effective methods to address this behavior. One approach is enrolling your puppy in a puppy training class where they can learn essential obedience commands. It’s important to note that the puppy biting phase is temporary, usually ending once they finish teething, which typically occurs around six months of age. By July 1, 2022, your puppy should have reached this milestone. During this teething period, puppies tend to bite more as they explore the world with their mouths, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can help them develop better biting habits and enjoy a well-behaved companion.

1. Redirect, Redirect, Redirect. …
2. Interrupt the Nipping. …
3. Stop Play or Interaction. …
4. Use Your Puppy Zone. …
5. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys. …
6. Make Sure Your Puppy Gets Lots of Mental Enrichment. …
7. Teach Your Puppy Leave It and Drop It. …
8. Don’t Yell or Hit Your Puppy.