My 3-month-old puppy bites a lot. How can I stop the nipping?

Question

Hi I have a 3 month old Russell terrier puppy, he is very aggressive I’m not sure if he may not like me or not but he bites ALOT and I was wondering how I can train him not to although i try to tell him no and push him down he jumps back and tries to bite again could you please help? Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 25 days old | 8 lbs

Jessica Desrosiers · Accepted Answer

I'm not entirely sure if you're referring to actual aggression (intent to bite), or just nipping behavior, which is very normal and common in puppies. If Cooper is doing the usual puppy nipping (very excited, wiggly body, chewing on everything, jumping up, etc), then there are a few things you can do. One is to just get up and walk away when he becomes too excited, and ignore him (you may need to leave the room). Once he is calm, you can start play again to help teach him that nipping behavior doesn't get attention. Yelping out Ouch! In a high pitched voice can also help, as it mimics playing too rough with a litter mate. Replacing the chewing/nipping with an appropriate toy so his mouth is occupied can also help. Be sure to praise and give him attention when he is focused on his toys, rather than your hand! Puppies do start to get adult teeth around 6-7 months of age, so you may see a surge in nipping and chewing then as well! If Cooper is showing actual aggression (growling, stiff body, whale eyes, pinned back ears, snarling, showing teeth, biting to try and break the skin) then this is a serious and complex situation that should be checked out by a veterinary behaviorist in person. You can look for one in your area by following this link: http://www.dacvb.org/about/member-directory/

My 3-month-old puppy bites a lot. How can I stop the nipping?

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