4 Tips On How To Train A Puppy Not To Bite

A common question for new puppy owners is how to train a puppy not to bite. It is very easy to take your puppies biting and nipping personally but they do not mean any harm and it is important that they learn it is not acceptable before they grow up. Biting or mouthing is a natural thing for puppies to do and it is one of the reasons why it is important for pups to stay with their mothers and litter mates until they reach the age of 8 weeks.

It is while playing with their litter mates that pups learn the basics of bite inhibition. When young puppies play together they bite and nip at each other and they squeal if they are bitten too hard. This is how they learn to control the pressure of their play biting so as not to hurt each other.

However, if you own a puppy or young dog you have no doubt been nipped or bitten while playing with your pup and you will understand how we humans get hurt a lot easier than pups so the puppies bite threshold needs to be adjusted accordingly while it is still young.

Here are 4 tips on how to train a puppy not to bite.

1. Squeal loudly when your pup nips too hard and turn away from him/her to let him/her know you find this behaviour unacceptable.

2. Use a toy or chew when playing so the puppy doesn’t focus his/her attention on your hands.

3. It is important to be consistent when you correct your pup. Your puppy will get confused if you correct him/her for something you allowed 5 minutes ago.

4. Never ever hit, shake or slap your dog not matter how bad he/she has been. It is important to train your pup with positive reinforcement and hitting your puppy will only result in fear or mistrust.

By: Eoin McDonnell

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Remember when you are learning how to train a puppy not to bite that the most important thing is patience. If you want to teach your dog to be well behaved and obedient, it is important to make sure he/she understands your commands. You can get a comprehensive dog training handbook at www.thedogtrainingsite.info covering all aspects of dog ownership, from understanding your dog to problem-solving to complete obedience work.