Managing biting and chasing behaviours in puppies can be a challenge for pet owners, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible to guide your puppy into becoming a well-behaved companion. Much like human children who explore the world through touch and movement as they learn to walk, puppies also explore their surroundings using their mouths. This often involves chewing on objects, chasing people or other animals, and even biting. While these actions are a normal part of a puppy’s development, it is crucial to train them early on to avoid these behaviours becoming problematic, particularly when they involve biting or chasing people.
Here are five proven strategies to help your puppy curb these behaviours:
1. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool when training puppies. When your puppy behaves appropriately – such as not chasing people or biting – you should reward them with praise or treats. This encourages the puppy to associate good behaviour with positive outcomes. For instance, if your puppy refrains from biting or chasing, offer them a treat or a favourite toy. This simple reward system helps them understand what behaviours are acceptable and encourages them to repeat those actions.
2. Incorporate Playtime into Their Routine
Like young children, puppies have a lot of energy that needs to be channelled into constructive activities. Set aside a fixed time each day for outdoor play, such as a game of fetch or running around in the garden. This helps to tire your puppy out and provides them with an outlet for their excess energy, which can reduce the likelihood of chasing or biting in the home. Regular physical activity not only keeps them fit and healthy but also promotes a calmer temperament.
3. Use Clear and Consistent Commands
Puppies respond best to clear, consistent instructions. When you need to stop them from biting or chasing, avoid lengthy reprimands or shouting. Instead, use simple commands such as “No” or “Stop” and accompany the words with a firm hand gesture, such as holding your hand up in a ‘stop’ signal. Make sure to maintain a serious tone and expression. This helps the puppy understand that their behaviour is not acceptable. Consistency is key – always use the same words and signals so your puppy can easily recognise and understand them.
4. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
Puppies, particularly between the ages of six to seven months, go through a teething phase. During this time, they often chew on anything they can find to relieve the discomfort of their growing teeth. Instead of scolding them when they bite inappropriate objects, offer them a variety of chew toys. These toys can help redirect their chewing behaviour and provide the relief they need. Chew toys also give your puppy something to focus on, reducing the likelihood of them biting or chasing people or furniture.
5. Seek Professional Help if Necessary
If your puppy’s biting or chasing behaviour persists despite your best efforts, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. An expert can assess your puppy’s behaviour and provide tailored advice and techniques to address the problem. In some cases, persistent aggression or excessive biting may be linked to underlying physical or emotional issues. A professional can help identify any health concerns or behavioural triggers and provide a more effective training plan.
Training a puppy to stop biting and chasing requires patience and consistency, but the results are worth the effort. By using positive reinforcement, providing plenty of playtime, issuing clear commands, offering appropriate toys, and seeking expert help if necessary, you can ensure that your puppy grows up to be a well-behaved and calm companion.
