Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my dog biting after having puppies? Is she being protective?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 5 months old

My dog has been biting lately. She had puppies on March 19th. A few days prior to having puppies she bit my finger. She bit the neighbor once and brought blood. She also bit his son 2 times for no apparent reason. The worst bite was when she brought blood on our neighbors leg. The others were more or less nips. Could this somehow be because she was pregnant and now had pups to protect or is something else going on? I'm very worried as I have 2 small children. One who was bit 2 yrs ago.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2019

It could be because Lily was pregnant and now has puppies. Some dogs can be very protective when pregnant. After her puppies are weaned, I would have her spayed and put into training with a professional behavioral expert.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored