As we saw in a previous post, when our puppy bites us or our furniture, it is not just a child's game. Many times, this behavior is due to internal factors such as the appearance of their teeth and fangs. Generally, biting helps relieve pain. pain of the new teeth, leading the animal to do it constantly to avoid discomfort. However, allowing a puppy to bite whatever it wants can become a problem in the long term, as it will associate this action as normal and acceptable behavior.
Why do puppies bite?
Before correcting this behavior, it is essential to understand the reasons behind it. Puppies, like human babies, use their mouths to explore their environment. Also, during the teething phase, which occurs between 3 weeks and 6 months oldIt is common for puppies to bite to relieve gum irritation. Chewing is pleasurable for them and relieves the pain they feel.
However, it's not all about teething. A puppy can also bite due to boredom, lack of exercise or mental stimulation, stress or even attention seeking. Identifying the exact cause will allow you to apply the correct strategies to mitigate this behavior.
How to teach your puppy not to bite
While biting is normal in puppies, it is important to redirect this behavior towards appropriate objects and prevent their bites from being directed at people or furniture. Here are some practical tips to stop a biting puppy:
- Make a sound of pain: When your puppy bites you, make a clear sound like “OUCH!” to let him know that he has hurt you. This mimics the behavior of his littermates, who would whine if a bite was too hard.
- Leaving space: After he makes the pain sound, immediately walk away. This will send a clear message: if he bites, he loses the opportunity to interact with you.
- Provide a suitable toy: Come back after a few minutes and offer him a chew toy. If he uses it instead of biting you, praise him and reinforce his good behavior.
Using tools to correct your puppy
A complementary strategy you can employ is the use of an object to reinforce the correction commands. For example:
fill one empty can with nails or coins and make sure to seal it well. When the puppy starts to bite, tell him a resounding “NO” and shake the can vigorously. The noise will serve as a negative reinforcement associated with the incorrect action. It is crucial not to mention your puppy’s name while correcting him, to prevent him from associating his name with something negative.
Strategies to prevent bites
In addition to correcting the behavior in the moment, it is important to address the underlying causes that may be causing your puppy to bite. Here are some recommendations:
- Provide appropriate toys: Make sure your puppy always has access to toys safe toys designed specifically for chewing. Food-stuffed toys or rubber teethers are often great options for redirecting their attention.
- Encourage physical exercise: A tired puppy is less likely to bite. Spend time playing with him outdoors, whether it's throwing a ball, running or just walking together.
- Mind stimulation: Interactive games and toys that require problem solving are great for keeping your puppy busy and preventing boredom.
Avoiding mistakes during training
Many people make common mistakes when trying to teach their puppy not to bite. These include:
- Using physical punishment: Hitting or yelling not only creates fear and anxiety in the puppy, but can also make the behavior worse.
- Being inconsistent: The whole family should follow the same rules. If one person allows a behavior and another doesn't, the puppy will become confused and learn incorrectly.
- Encouraging biting behavior: Don't use your hands or feet as toys. This only reinforces the idea that biting people is acceptable.
When to seek professional help
If the biting behavior persists despite your attempts to correct it, it may be helpful to consult with a professional trainer or animal behaviorist. They will assess the possible underlying causes and work with you to improve your puppy's behavior.
Remember that each dog is unique and requires patience, consistency y love during the learning process. With the right approach, your puppy can overcome this habit and become a well-behaved and happy companion.
But what to do when a puppy chases an adult dog to bite it even if it is at stake? I explain my dog of almost 3 years met a puppy of 3 months or so and the dog was chasing him and this did not seem to bother mine. Although they did not see each other very often at least once a month, they did. The puppy has grown, today it is 1 months old and my dog already seems to be bothered by the attitude of the other and the last time they saw each other my dog applied a corrective and the other did not flinch to stop at his bites, the owner just pushed him away , but mine was enchilao and does not want it anymore. Do I avoid his "friendship"?