02/06/2025
🦴 Puppy Biting – Why It Happens & How to Gently Stop It 🐾
Bringing home a schnauzer puppy is full of cuddles, zoomies… and sometimes a few little nips! Biting is a totally normal part of puppy development—but it’s something we want to guide them gently away from early on.
Here’s what’s going on and how to help:
🔹 Why Puppies Bite
Puppies use their mouths to explore the world, just like babies use their hands. They also bite during play, when teething, or when overstimulated or tired. It’s not aggression—it’s just part of how they learn.
🔹 How to Curb the Biting
✅ Yelp and Withdraw: If your pup bites too hard, let out a high-pitched “Ow!”—then stop interaction briefly. This mimics what their littermates would do and teaches bite inhibition.
✅ Redirect with Toys: Always have soft toys or chew options handy. If your pup tries to bite hands or feet, calmly redirect to the toy. Praise when they choose it!
✅ Avoid Rough Play: Wrestling or hand-chasing games can confuse pups and encourage nipping. Opt for fetch or tug with rules.
✅ Reward Calm Behaviour: Puppies repeat what gets attention. Praise and treat your pup when they’re calm and playing nicely.
✅ Time-outs Work: If your pup is overstimulated, gently remove them from the situation for a short break to reset.
🔹 Teething Troubles?
Teething pups especially need things to chew! Frozen carrots, a chilled Kong, or puppy-safe teething toys can work wonders.
🔹 Consistency is Key
Everyone in the household needs to respond the same way to nipping—consistency helps your pup learn faster.
🔹 When to Seek Help
If biting escalates or seems fear-driven, it’s a great idea to check in with a qualified trainer or behaviorist. Early intervention works best.
✨ The good news? With patience, boundaries, and positive reinforcement, your schnauzer pup will grow out of this phase and into a polite, loving companion!
We’d love to hear what has worked for you—feel free to share your tips or ask questions below! 🐶👇
