My dog playfully bites. How can I stop this behavior humanely?

Question

I have a 2 year old AMSTAF. She likes to playfully nip us and its not a behavior we want to encourage. Is there any way to discourage this humanely? Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old | 40 lbs

Stephanie Echols, DVM · Accepted Answer

It depends on what Tootie is nipping for. If it is when she plays without toys, I recommend saying "No" when she does it and give her a toy to play with instead. When she plays with the toy tell her "good girl". If she is nipping over a toy, I would stop playing with that toy all together. Continue to positively reinforce good behaviors, like playing calmly without biting, and give lots of praise when she is playing nice. When she starts to nip, take your attention away, until she sits or settles down. When she does, give lots of praise. Make sure everyone that plays with her is following these instructions or she may get confused. Good luck and kisses to Tootie!

My dog playfully bites. How can I stop this behavior humanely?

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