How to stop a puppy biting
Mouthing and nipping are normal for puppies, but they can still hurt. The good news is that a calm, consistent response works. This guide follows Dogs Trust's advice.
Why puppies bite
Dogs Trust says mouthing is usually a sign of big feelings, like excitement or worry, that your puppy doesn't yet know how to express. It isn't a sign of dominance. Common reasons are:
- Exploring: puppies investigate the world with their mouths
- Play: quick nips during games, or to invite you to play
- Over-excitement: when you come home, before walks or at mealtimes
- Teething: chewing soothes sore gums
- Tiredness: puppies need around 18 to 20 hours of sleep a day, and overtired puppies mouth more
- Attention: if mouthing has got them attention before, it can become a habit
6 steps to stop mouthing
Redirect early
Watch for the signs play is building, such as bouncing, pouncing or batting with their paws, and offer a toy before the mouthing starts.
Stay still
If their teeth touch you, stop what you're doing. Drop the toy or hide it behind your back.
Take your attention away
If they carry on, turn away and fold your arms. If you're on the floor, stand up.
Move away for a moment
If that doesn't work, leave them briefly to calm down. A door or stair gate helps if they follow you.
Reward calm
Once they've settled, start the game again, scatter a few treats or give them a gentle fuss.
Praise good choices
When your puppy chews a toy or brings one to you, praise them and join in.
What not to do
- Don't punish. Raised voices or pushing your puppy away can make biting worse over time
- Don't snatch your hands or feet away, which turns it into a game
- Don't pull clothing out of their mouth, which starts a tug game
- Don't play rough or let them mouth you for fun
- Don't change the rules. Everyone at home, and visitors, should respond the same way
Teething
Puppy teeth start falling out at around 12 weeks, and adult teeth are usually all through by about 7 months. Offer suitable chews for sore gums, rotate a few toys so they stay interesting, and replace damaged ones. Contact your vet if your puppy seems uncomfortable.
When to get help
See your vet if mouthing suddenly increases or comes back after improving, as it can be a sign of pain or illness. If it isn't improving, Dogs Trust's free Behaviour Support Line can help on 0303 003 6666. Get help urgently if a dog bites aggressively or causes injury, and get medical advice for any bite that breaks the skin.
Getting ready for a new puppy? See our new puppy checklist.
Keeping your dog safe if they get lost
In public, your dog must wear a collar and tag with your name and address. A PawTrak QR plate on the same collar gives whoever finds your dog a quick way to reach you.
- Any phone camera reads it. No app needed.
- The finder can message you and share their location.
- Free profile with every collar.
Shop collars · See what a finder sees