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How do I teach my puppy to stop biting and chew on toys instead?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 19 days old

Stopping my puppy from biting

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 20th, 2017

Puppies bite and chew out of boredom, when playing and during teething. As an owner, it is up to you to teach what is appropriate chewing and what is not. Always provide appropriate chew toys for your breed of dog. Correct him when he is chewing inappropriately (either the wrong item or too rough). Praise and reward him when he chews appropriately. If he gets too riled up during play, avoid those actions that bring him to that point. A trainer can assist you in teaching the "No bite" command and other basic commands.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Celestin, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Dentistry Resident

    Published on July 5th, 2017

    Hi there! I suggest making sure that when you are playing with him you always have a toy or something that he is allowed to chew on near by. When he starts to bite you, tell him no and put the toy in his mouth. It's rather tedious, but it does reinforce what is appropriate to bite and not. I can't guarantee this method, but it did work with with my Rhodesian when he was a puppy. Hopefully, some of my colleagues will offer their suggestions as well. Best of luck with the training.

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