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How do I stop my adolescent dog from mouthing and biting people?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | White Shepherd | Female | spayed | 10 months and 10 days old

My dog wasn't mouthing as a young puppy but now in adolescent she started mouthing people. My sister is really scared of her what do I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lirril. Play biting is a normal part of puppy development. It is how littermates learn to play together. This sets the basis for how older adults will interact. However, puppies need to be trained what is acceptable to their owners and what is not. When she mouths you, tell her "no" and redirect her to something positive such as a toy. If her behavior persists, walk away. She needs to learn that this type of behavior will not be allowed and she will lose the opportunity to interact with you. She will also benefit from obedience classes. It will build her confidence and help her to understand basic commands. It will give you a basis on which to build upon for further training. If her biting appears more than just playful and is truly aggressive, this can be a serious situation. You will need to seek a behavioral consult with her veterinarian. I hope this information helps!

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