Dealing with a puppy that bites can be a source of great frustration and pain for new pet owners. If you're struggling with a puppy that has suddenly become aggressive, our team of veterinarians in Franklin is here to offer helpful solutions.
Why does my puppy keep biting me?
Dealing with a teething puppy can feel like a never-ending struggle, especially when they start chewing on everything in sight. However, it's important to stay calm and remember that your pup isn't being intentionally naughty. They are simply trying to alleviate the pain and discomfort of teething. Chewing on objects is their way of seeking relief, even if it means targeting your new sofa's leg.
When do puppies start teething?
Puppies generally get their first set of teeth at around five to six weeks old. When they reach around 16 weeks of age, they will start to shed their sharp baby teeth, and their adult teeth will begin to grow.
How long does the biting stage last?
Once your dog reaches six to seven months old, they should have all of their adult teeth and will no longer experience teething. However, many pet owners may face challenges during the 4 to 5 months of teething.
Puppies will often chew on anything they can find to alleviate the pain, which may include furniture legs, expensive footwear, or even your fingers or toes due to their small size.
To relieve your furry friend's discomfort and protect your belongings, here are some suggestions from our veterinary team at Advanced Veterinary Care.
How to stop a puppy from biting?
If you're wondering how to stop a puppy from biting, our Franklin vets have several tips that could help curb your puppy's mischievous behavior.
Store Some Puppy Friendly Teething Toys in the Freezer
Puppies, like teething babies, often experience discomfort while teething. Chewing on cold or frozen items can help alleviate this pain. While there are teething-specific toys available at pet stores, almost any dog toy can be frozen to provide relief for your pup. Some good options include Kongs, rubber bones, and soft toys specifically made for dogs.
Offer Your Pup Extra Durable Chew Toys
Puppy teething bones, such as those offered by Nylabone, are appropriately sized for small, medium, and large breeds. They come in various flavors to entice your puppy away from less appealing items and toward a tasty, chewy treat. This encourages healthy chewing habits and helps relieve teething pain simultaneously.
Edible Teething Sticks for Puppies
Many reputable dog food brands offer edible teething treats and bones for puppies, which can help alleviate the pain in their mouths. Your veterinarian may recommend a specific treat for your pup, or you can visit a nearby pet store to choose from a variety of flavors and sizes. It's important to select the right size of treat for your puppy to ensure they get the most benefit from it.
Healthy Frozen Foods For Puppies to Chew
Many puppies enjoy tasty treats such as frozen bagels, frozen carrots, or other healthy veggies. If you plan to offer your pup a frozen treat, always consult your vet first to ensure it's a suitable option for your dog.
How to train a puppy not to bite?
Nipping and biting are natural behaviors for puppies when they play. If one puppy bites another too hard, the hurt pup will let out a high-pitched yelp.
If your young dog is biting and nipping at you, it's important to address this behavior before it becomes a bigger issue. One effective method to stop this is by imitating the yelp of a hurt puppy when your furry friend bites you.
A loud "OW" in a high-pitched tone should surprise your puppy and make them stop. When your puppy ceases biting and backs away, you should reward them for their good behavior.
If this approach leads your puppy to nip at you more aggressively, quietly stop playing with your puppy and walk away or gently put your pup in their crate for some quiet time.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.