How do I stop my puppy from biting my older dog? Essential Tips

Things to keep in mind:

  • Be sure to give your pup attention and praise when they are behaving nicely!
  • All family members and guests MUST be consistent in order for this to work!
  • Be aware that even doing everything right, this behavior may not go away entirely until 5-6 months of age. Remember, this is a normal developmental period in puppies.
  • For extra-bitey puppies, or those that are biting after 5-6 months of age, this blog will help give you some additional tips and recommendations.
  • 1) Set Some Boundaries

    If your puppy keeps pestering your older dog who has different energy levels, make sure to be an ambassador for your dog and provide some boundaries. You owe it to your adult dog to keep them feeling safe from the continuous intrusion.

    Erect a baby gate or keep your puppy in a playpen with toys so that your older dog has a quiet place to retreat to that is puppy-free.

    Often squabbles between older dogs and puppies are due to the puppy pestering the older dog for play. It may therefore be a good idea to ensure your puppy gets ample opportunities to play with you, training and mental stimulation before being presented to your older dog.

    Make it clear to your pup that he should seek you for play or should play with his toys (how about a stuffed Kong?) rather than bothering your older dog. This may pave the path to calmer behaviors.

    However, make sure your puppy has had some rest as tired puppies can be particularly cranky and more likely to misbehave!

    Why Does My Puppy Want to Bite My Older Dog?

    Let’s take a look at a few reasons why you might find yourself in that situation:

    Most of the time, a puppy wants attention and stimulation to remain engaged and in good spirits. You need to pet and show affection to the puppy to help him grow mentally healthy.

    If you have an older dog, he might become the target of the puppy’s pleas for attention. This can be as harmless as running around in circles or escalate to rough play or biting.

    My PUPPY is Biting my OLDER Sweet DOG – ask me anything – Robert Cabral Dog TRAINING