🐾 Veterinary Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. All medical content is reviewed by James Crawford, ABTC-ATI, BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour. Always consult your registered veterinary surgeon if your pet shows signs of illness.
🔄Last Updated: 12 April 2026
Why Do Puppies Bite?
Puppies explore the world with their mouths. They bite during play, when they are teething, and when they are overtired. It is entirely natural but must be managed.
Table of Contents
Redirection is Key
Never smack or physically punish a biting puppy. Instead, always have a toy on hand. When the puppy goes for hands or ankles, immediately place a toy in their mouth and praise them for biting the toy.
The Timeout Method
If redirection fails and the puppy bites your skin, say “Ouch!” firmly, stand up, cross your arms, and ignore them for 10 seconds. If they persist, calmly step out of the room for 30 seconds. This teaches them that biting makes the fun stop.
Are They Just Tired?
Often, a “shark attack” mode means the puppy is severely overtired. Enforce a nap in their crate or pen.
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