Puppy biting is one of the most common concerns new dog owners face. Understanding why puppies bite and how to address this behavior is crucial for raising a well-behaved adult dog.

Why Puppies Bite

Puppy biting is completely normal behavior that serves several purposes:

• Exploration - Puppies explore their world with their mouths
• Teething relief - Biting helps relieve discomfort from emerging teeth
• Play behavior - This is how they played with their littermates
• Attention seeking - They learn that biting gets a reaction
• Overstimulation - When excited or overwhelmed, they may bite

When Do Puppies Stop Biting?

Most puppies begin to reduce their biting behavior around 4-6 months of age as they:

• Finish teething (around 6 months)
• Learn bite inhibition through training
• Develop better impulse control
• Find appropriate outlets for their energy

How to Stop Puppy Biting

Effective strategies to reduce puppy biting:

1. Redirect to appropriate toys - Always have chew toys available
2. Use the "ouch" method - Yelp loudly when bitten, then ignore the puppy briefly
3. Time-outs - Remove the puppy from play when they bite too hard
4. Consistent training - Everyone in the household should respond the same way
5. Provide adequate exercise - Tired puppies are less likely to bite from excess energy

What NOT to Do

Avoid these common mistakes that can make biting worse:

• Don't use physical punishment - this can increase aggression
• Don't play rough games that encourage biting
• Don't pull your hands away quickly - this triggers prey drive
• Don't give attention for biting behavior

Remember, patience and consistency are key. With proper training, most puppies learn appropriate bite inhibition within a few months.