Why Is My Puppy Biting Me?

Those tiny puppy teeth may look cute, but they are razor-sharp and can easily break the skin. If your puppy is biting, growling, and acting wild, you are not alone and you are not doing anything wrong.

It can feel disheartening when your cuddly pup suddenly becomes a hyper, nipping furball. The good news is that this behaviour is completely normal. Puppy biting is a common part of development. Some puppies bite more than others, and personalities can vary widely. While one pup may rarely bite, another may seem determined to chomp on everything-including you.

The great news is this stage will pass. With patience, guidance, and time, your pup will grow out of it, and you will enjoy a calm, loving companion.

What’s Happening?

Between 12 and 16 weeks of age, many puppies reach the peak of biting behaviour. This usually coincides with teething, when they lose 24 baby teeth and grow 42 adult teeth. Puppies react to the discomfort by chewing and mouthing everything around them.

From about 16 to 24 weeks, your puppy continues growing adult teeth. During this phase, it is important to stay calm, patient, and consistent. This behaviour is temporary, and with the right support, your puppy will outgrow it.

How Can You Help?

1. Stop Everything Fun

   • When your puppy bites too hard or teeth touch the skin, immediately stop all play.

   • Turn away or walk off for 10 to 30 seconds.

   • This mimics how littermates teach each other that play was too rough.

     
     

2. Redirect to Toys

   • Always keep chew toys nearby.

   • If they bite hands or clothes, calmly remove your attention and offer a toy instead.

   • Praise them when they choose the toy to teach appropriate chewing.

     
     

3. Use Calm Time-Outs

   • If your puppy gets too nippy, place them in a safe, boring space for 1 to 2 minutes with something calming like a frozen Kong or chew.

   • This is not punishment but a chance to reset.

     
     

4. Reward Calm, Gentle Behaviour

   • Notice when they play gently or chew their toys and praise or treat this behaviour.

By staying consistent and using redirection, calm breaks, and positive reinforcement, you will guide your puppy through this teething and nipping phase successfully.