Why Does My Puppy Bite So Much?
If you've recently welcomed a new puppy into your home, you may be wondering if they're part puppy and part crocodile! One of the most common questions I hear from new owners is:
"Why does my puppy bite so much?"
The good news is that puppy biting is completely normal. Puppies explore the world with their mouths, just as babies use their hands. Understanding why your puppy is biting is the first step towards teaching them what you'd like them to do instead.
Why Puppies Bite
There are several reasons why puppies bite, and in most cases, it's a natural part of their development.
1. They're Exploring the World
Puppies don't have hands, so they use their mouths to investigate everything around them. Shoes, sleeves, furniture and even your hands all become interesting things to explore.
2. They're Teething
Between around 12 and 24 weeks of age, puppies begin losing their baby teeth and growing their adult teeth. This can make their gums sore, and chewing helps relieve the discomfort.
Providing a variety of safe chew toys, frozen treats or suitable enrichment can help satisfy this natural need.
3. They're Overtired
Many owners are surprised to learn that tired puppies often become more bitey, not less.
Just like an overtired toddler, puppies can struggle to regulate their emotions when they're exhausted. If your puppy suddenly becomes wild, grabs at clothes or starts biting harder than usual, they may simply need some quiet time to rest.
4. They're Excited
Puppies become mouthy during play because excitement makes it harder for them to think clearly. Fast movements, chasing games and rough play can all increase biting.
Teaching calm games and taking regular breaks can help your puppy learn to settle before they become over-aroused.
What Should You Do?
Instead of telling your puppy what not to do, focus on showing them what to do.
When your puppy starts biting:
Stay calm.
Stop moving your hands if they're becoming a target.
Redirect them onto an appropriate toy or chew.
Reward calm behaviour.
Give them opportunities to rest if they're becoming overstimulated.
Over time, your puppy will learn that chewing their toys is much more rewarding than chewing your hands.
What Should You Avoid?
It's easy to become frustrated, but punishment can damage your puppy's confidence and doesn't teach them what you want instead.
Avoid:
Smacking or tapping your puppy.
Holding their mouth shut.
Shouting.
Playing rough games that encourage grabbing hands or clothing.
Instead, focus on building good habits through consistent, reward-based training.
Can Puppy Classes Help?
Absolutely.
Puppy classes don't just teach sits and downs—they help owners understand why puppies behave the way they do. You'll learn how to prevent unwanted behaviours from becoming lifelong habits while building a calm, confident relationship with your puppy.
At 247 Dog Training, our reward-based puppy classes in Warrington cover everyday skills including recall, loose lead walking, calmness around distractions, confidence building and practical solutions for common puppy behaviours such as biting and over-excitement.
When Will My Puppy Stop Biting?
For most puppies, biting gradually reduces as they mature, their adult teeth come through and they learn better ways to interact with people.
With patience, consistency and plenty of appropriate outlets for chewing and play, you'll usually notice steady improvement over the coming months.
Remember, your puppy isn't trying to be naughty—they're learning about the world. Every interaction is an opportunity to teach them how to make good choices.
Need Help With Puppy Biting in Warrington, Widnes or Runcorn?
If your puppy's biting is becoming difficult to manage, you're not alone. Many new owners experience exactly the same challenge.
Our puppy classes in Warrington are designed to give you practical, reward-based training and the confidence to raise a calm, well-mannered family dog.
Get in touch today to find out more about our upcoming puppy classes and give your puppy the very best start. Call or Message Now 07760 125 243