If you’ve recently brought home a new puppy, you already know—those little teeth are sharp! Puppy biting is completely natural and one of the most common questions we hear from new families. It’s how your puppy explores the world and plays with littermates, but now that playtime includes you, it's important to start teaching softer mouth skills early on.
Here are a few of our BAXTER & Bella go-to strategies to help curb the nipping and build better habits:
🦴 Have the Right Tools on Hand
Always keep a stash of exciting, puppy-safe chew toys nearby. If your puppy starts to nip at you, redirect that energy onto a toy instead. Try rotating a few different textures to keep things interesting!
🚶♀️Walk Away, Not Into a Battle
If your puppy bites you during play, calmly stand up and walk away. No scolding, no drama. Just a clear signal: “Biting ends the fun.” Use an exercise pen or baby gate to create space if needed. You can step out or in depending on the situation—just enough time for your pup to calm down and try again.
🍖 Reward Gentle Behavior
Want your puppy to learn how to be gentle? Practice food manners. Hold a treat in your closed fist and wait. If your puppy paws, bites, or licks—stay patient. When he backs off and shows self-control, say “YES!” and give the treat.
Try counting to 3 before rewarding, then work up to 5, 10, or even 20 seconds. He’ll learn that calm, polite behavior earns rewards—and that teeth never do. Only release the treat when your puppy uses his tongue (not his teeth) to take it from your hand.
✨The Big Picture
Teaching bite inhibition isn’t about stopping your puppy from being a puppy—it’s about helping them grow into a well-mannered family member. Teach them what you want them to do. Use a target hand and lure them into a sit every time they approach you. With practice, patience, and the right plan, you’ll build a relationship based on trust, respect, and gentle play.
You’ve got this—and we’re here to help every step of the way!
Happy Training,
Amy & Team
Baxter & Bella
