Dealing with Play Biting

Playbiting is common with puppies and kittens. Adult dogs may become more mouthy in the winter due to a lack of exercise and the chance to explore the outdoors. So, what to do?

To prevent biting make sure your pet has plenty of toys* - at least one in each room of your home. And play with your pet! Playbiting is generally an attempt to interact; if your pet is getting enough play time with you he won't initiate play by biting.

If your puppy does bite, yelp or make a noise ("Ack" for example) to interupt him. Do not yank your hand away as this will encourage him to grab it again. Praise your pup softly when he lets go of you. Return to play after a few seconds. If your pup continues to bite, he needs a time out: ignore him or put him in another room for 20 - 30 seconds. Your pup will soon learn that biting ends his fun.

If your kitten does bite, freeze. Movement will enourage the kitten to continue biting. When she lets go of you, redirect her to a toy. If your kitten continues to bite, she needs a time out: put her in another room for 1 - 2 minutes.

 
For more pet tips click here.