How Do I Stop My Puppy Biting Me?

Puppy biting is part of their natural development — but those sharp little teeth can make playtime painful. The good news? With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can teach your puppy to use their mouth more gently or not at all. Here's how.

Jump to section:

• Why Do Puppies Bite?
• Is Puppy Biting Normal?
• How to Stop Your Puppy from Biting
• What Not to Do
• When Biting Might Be Something Else
• FAQs

Why Do Puppies Bite?

Puppies bite for several reasons — it’s how they explore the world, relieve teething discomfort, and engage in play. It’s also a key part of social learning, especially between littermates. But as they grow, it's important they learn bite inhibition and how to interact gently with humans.

Is Puppy Biting Normal?

Yes — completely. Most puppies go through a biting phase between 8 and 16 weeks. It usually peaks around this time and gradually lessens with proper socialisation and training. That said, you should guide your puppy toward more appropriate behaviours so biting doesn’t continue into adulthood.

How to Stop Your Puppy from Biting

• Redirect to toys: Keep chew toys close by and swap your hands or clothes for something they can bite safely.
• Use a firm “ouch” or yelp: Mimic how other dogs teach bite inhibition. A short, sharp sound followed by stopping play teaches boundaries.
• Time-outs: If biting continues, calmly remove your attention for 10–30 seconds. Puppies quickly learn that biting ends the fun.
• Reward calm behaviour: Praise and treat your puppy when they play nicely or respond to redirection.
• Start basic obedience: Teaching commands like “sit” or “leave it” can help your puppy focus and reduce overstimulation.

What Not to Do

• Don’t shout or hit: This can increase fear or aggression and damage your relationship with your puppy.
• Don’t encourage rough play: Tug-of-war or wrestling games may increase nipping if not managed carefully.
• Don’t ignore persistent biting: If biting escalates or your puppy becomes overly aggressive, consult a professional trainer or behaviourist.

When Biting Might Be Something Else

If your puppy is biting with growling, stiffness, or snapping that seems more than playful — or if biting continues past six months — it could be a sign of fear, frustration, or early behavioural issues. In these cases, speak with your vet or a certified behaviourist for guidance.

FAQs

When will my puppy stop biting?

Most puppies grow out of biting between 4–6 months of age, especially with consistent training and positive reinforcement.

Is it okay to let puppies bite during play?

Gentle mouthing is normal, but it’s best to redirect to toys and set clear boundaries early to avoid issues later.

What are the best toys to stop biting?

Teething rings, durable chew toys, and plush toys with crinkles or squeakers can help satisfy their urge to bite without hurting anyone.

Can teething make biting worse?

Yes. Teething typically peaks around 12–16 weeks and can increase chewing and nipping behaviour. Cold toys or frozen treats can help soothe sore gums.

Should I use bitter spray to stop biting?

Some people find deterrent sprays helpful, but they should only be used in combination with training — not as a replacement for it.