Puppy Bitting: Why it happens & How to fix it

dreamalittledoodle
Sep 16
2 min read

You brought home the perfect goldendoodle puppy with the big, irresistible puppy eyes, soft coat, and gives the best snuggles. Everything has been going fine, and then out of nowhere, that cute goldendoodle puppy becomes a land shark ready to attack. It's latching onto your ankles, your arms. or anything that makes sudden movements. Don't worry, your puppy is not broken; it's just going through the puppy biting phase, and it is completely normal. I promise this phase won't last forever, and your puppy will outgrow it.

But why does puppy biting happen?

Puppies bite for various reasons

-They explore the world with their mouth

-they're teething and need to find relief

-for attention-seeking

-learning how to play.

So, how do you manage puppy biting?

Offer the right toys: Redirect those puppy teeth onto appropriate toys like rubber toys, frozen washcloths, or puppy-safe bones.
Teach Bite Inhibition: When puppies play with their littermates and they bite too hard, the littermate will yelp to let them know that was too rough. If your puppy comes after let out an "ouch" to let them know it was too much.
Redirect Energy: Sometimes a puppy has too much pent-up energy. Use this time to use tug toys, fetch, or even a short training session to tire them out in a positive way.
Encourage Calm Behavior: Reward calmness with praise and treats. A puppy that learns that gentle interactions will bring love will catch on quickly.
Remain Calm: Don't jump or run while a puppy is biting you. This will confuse them and encourage them to play and bite harder.
Keep A Routine: Making sure your puppy is on a schedule or routine to make sure he/she is getting enough naps. An overtired puppy is an overstimulated puppy.