Q&A for How to Stop Dogs from Biting

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  • Question
    How do I train my puppy not to bite?
    Jaimie Scott
    Dog Owner Trainer
    Jaimie Scott has been training dog owners as the Owner of Jaimie Scott Dog Training in Sacramento, California for the past 15 years. Jaimie meets clients for 1-on-1 training, group classes (owners only, no dogs), as well as live video classes. Jaimie has published videos, blog articles, and eBooks to share tips for training and his personalized insight into dog behavior. With a focus on training the owners, Jaimie believes that dogs need to know who’s in control at any given time in order to feel secure and be happy. Jaimie holds a BS in Mathematics and Computer Science from Pacific University.
    Dog Owner Trainer
    Expert Answer
    When you sense your puppy is about to bite you, say "no" or "no bite." Then, if he doesn't bite you, give him a treat and praise as a reward. If he does bite, walk away and ignore him for a few minutes. This will help him learn that gentle play is rewarded while rough play is not.
  • Question
    What do I do if my puppy bites more and gets aggressive if we use the yelp and stop method?
    Community Answer
    You should probably use a different method. Test different methods and see what your pup responds to best.
  • Question
    How should I complain about a stray dog that has bitten several people, and what action will be taken?
    Community Answer
    Call animal control. The dog will likely be put to sleep, but it would protect so many folks. It's the only responsible thing to do.
  • Question
    My friend's dog slightly scratched my hand with his tooth. He was confirmed not to have rabies. I just washed it after the bleeding stopped. Should I do something else too?
    Community Answer
    If he is confirmed to not have rabies, then there is probably nothing to worry about. But you must wash it thoroughly and make sure it is properly treated before going outside. If you continue to itch or irritation occurs, tell your parents or a trusted adult.
  • Question
    How do you play with your dog without it biting you?
    Giana
    Community Answer
    If you play roughly with your dog, it will likely play roughly with you. To avoid being bitten, ensure you are not playing too rough.
  • Question
    What should I do if my 7-month-old, 65+ lb puppy bites my hands and arms when he's bored or not getting attention?
    Giana
    Community Answer
    Establish your authority with your puppy by using firm but gentle corrections, such as a light tap on the ear, to discourage biting. Ensure your dog gets sufficient exercise and attention. If these methods don't work, it might be worth considering if you're fully prepared to handle a large dog.
  • Question
    How can I stop my cattle puppy from biting and snarling at people who don't live with us?
    Tim178
    Community Answer
    Cattle dogs are energetic and can be wary of strangers. Gradually introduce him to neighbours and others by offering treats, which can help him warm up to new people. Remember, it's natural for them to be protective, so don't force interactions.
  • Question
    How do I stop my 7-year-old long-haired Chihuahua from biting?
    Giana
    Community Answer
    Chihuahuas can be aggressive due to their small size, which may make them feel unsafe. Try comforting your dog, and don't let anyone cause it to feel threatened.
  • Question
    Why does my three-year-old Aussiedor, who is normally gentle, bite my toddler without warning?
    Giana
    Community Answer
    Ensure your toddler is petting the dog appropriately, as your dog might be reacting to being hurt or touched in a sensitive area. Alternatively, the dog might be nipping as a form of play, in which case, train the dog to play gently.
  • Question
    How can I help a traumatized dog not fear or bite me?
    Julie
    Community Answer
    Time and patience are key. Sit at a distance on her level, allowing her to observe you. If you have other dogs, let her watch you interact with them. Let the dog decide when it feels safe to approach you. Speaking or singing softly can also help, but avoid loud noises. It can take many weeks to build trust.
  • Question
    I have tried everything to stop my dog from biting, including biting him back, but nothing is working. He is a bad dog but I love him; he's so mean to me and won't stop barking. My arms are all chewed up.
    Rae Clancy
    Community Answer
    To stop your dog from biting, use redirection techniques by providing a new toy, treats, or other distractions to shift their focus. Employ positive reinforcement by rewarding gentle behavior with treats. When your dog bites, make an "ouch!" noise and stop playing to signal that the behavior is unacceptable.
  • Question
    What do I do when a stray dog is charging toward me threatening to bite?
    Community Answer
    Avoid eye contact. Turn your body sideways to the dog to give it less of a target. Cross your arms to keep your hands safe. Act like you're ignoring the dog. Stay motionless for a short period, then slowly move away. Go somewhere that presents a barrier between you and the dog.
  • Question
    What if my dog is growling at a kid?
    HorseLover1431
    Community Answer
    If your dog is growling at a kid, ask the kid to back away. Pull the dog away. Say "no" very firmly. If you are out walking, walk the other way, or choose another direction. If you are in your yard, put the dog in their crate. When you feel like your dog is ready, ask kids to slowly approach the dog, and see how they react. If they repeatedly act aggressively, ask a professional dog trainer to help.
  • Question
    My family always beats up my dog whenever he bites. They say slapping him, and chaining him is the only way it can stop. I cry to myself whenever this happens, But I am helpless. What to do?
    Community Answer
    Try getting him a muzzle. Abuse is no way to treat a dog. Only take of the muzzle during feeding. He will find that trying to bite is useless and has no effect.
  • Question
    I think my pup is teething, but he keeps biting people.
    Community Answer
    This is totally normal as puppies bite fingers ankles and other body parts. Give them toys to chew, and say "no bites" when he bites. Make sure to take your hand away after you say that.
  • Question
    My 8 week old puppy keeps playfully biting my hand during playtime. He bites hard. How do I stop this?
    Community Answer
    Whenever this happens, make a yelping sound so your pup learns to control their bite, so it is not too hard. You can also stuff a toy in his/her mouth when he/she attempts to bite. Do not be afraid to say "no."
  • Question
    What can I do if my dog is lunge biting me she is 9 weeks old? It is not a soft playful bite, it is cutting me and she continues for an hour.
    Community Answer
    Consider getting another dog so that the pup can learn when the bite is too hard. Whenever your puppy bites you, make a yelping sound to signal that the bite is too hard. You can also try putting a toy in his/her mouth whenever they bite. Don't be afraid to say "no" whenever this happens.
  • Question
    My 12 week old puppy used to play bite but now it’s getting more and more frequent. I’m worried we’ll have to get rid of him, how can I make him stop?
    Community Answer
    Whenever your pup bites, make a yelping sound to signal that he bit too hard. Try stuffing a toy in his mouth whenever he attempts to bite. If he knows any commands such as sit or stay, etc., make him do so whenever he bites. Do not reward biting with food to get him to stop, it will just encourage it. Also, do not be afraid to say "no."
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