When should I start puppy training in Cork?

Puppy training can begin from 8 weeks old. Early socialisation and structured guidance help prevent common behaviour issues and build confidence.

Can you help a reactive or anxious dog?

Yes. We provide one-to-one behaviour consults in Cork for reactive dogs, anxiety, separation anxiety and fear-based behaviours.

Is my dog too old for training?

No. Dogs of all ages can learn with consistent, reward-based training.

How many sessions will my dog need?

Puppy training is delivered through structured courses, while behaviour consults vary depending on the issue and assessment findings.

What training methods do you use?

We use reward-based, evidence-led training methods focused on building trust and long-term behaviour change without punishment.

Dealing with Puppy Biting

Planet Pup
Oct 31, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Feb 17

Puppy Biting: Understanding and Managing the Behavior

Puppy biting is a common issue that many new dog owners face. Understanding why puppies bite and how to manage this behavior is crucial for a harmonious relationship with your furry friend.

Why Puppies Bite

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and biting is a natural part of their development. Here are some reasons why puppies may bite:

Exploration: Puppies use their mouths to explore their environment.
Teething: Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase, which can cause discomfort and lead to biting. Puppies lose and regrow 42 razor-sharp teeth in the space of just 3 months, and can become massively uncomfortable at this time, causing undesirable behaviours and excessive biting.
Playfulness: Biting can be a way for puppies to engage in play with their human companions or other animals.
Attention Seeking: Sometimes, puppies bite to get attention, even if it’s negative attention.

How Long Does Puppy Biting Last?

Puppy biting is typically most intense during the teething phase, which occurs between 3 to 6 months of age. However, some puppies may continue to nibble and bite as they play or seek attention. With proper training and management, this behavior usually diminishes as they mature, often around 6 to 12 months of age.

Effective Ways to Deal with Puppy Biting

Managing puppy biting requires patience and consistency. Here are some effective strategies:

Provide Cool Foods: Offer your puppy cool foods like carrots that have been stored in the fridge. The coldness can soothe their gums and reduce the urge to bite.
Rotate Toys: Keep your puppy engaged by rotating their toys regularly. This helps maintain their interest and provides appropriate outlets for their biting instincts.
Choose the Right Toys: Provide durable chew toys specifically designed for teething puppies. Look for options that are soft enough to be gentle on their gums but sturdy enough to withstand their biting.
Encourage Positive Interactions: Redirect biting behavior by offering toys when your puppy starts to nip at your hands or clothing. Praise them when they chew on appropriate items.
Teach Bite Inhibition: When your puppy bites too hard during play, let out a yelp or say “ouch” to signal that it’s too rough. This teaches them to be gentle.
Try to avoid wrestling with your puppy with your hands until they are older. It can be difficult for a puppy to understand when it is acceptable to bite people and when it is acceptable. They are able to reason this out more effectively when they are older (closer to 1 year old). Refraining from wrestling with your hands will also help to prevent excessive hand biting after the 6-month teething mark.
Ensure Adequate Sleep: Puppies need plenty of rest to avoid becoming overtired, which can lead to increased biting and hyperactivity. Establish a consistent sleep routine to help them recharge.
Redirection: Try to lure your puppy into a different game when they become overwhelmed and start biting excessively. Games using food often help the puppy to calm down, decreasing frantic energy and preventing excessive biting. Training sessions can be great for this, too.
Walking away: If your puppy is still determined to bite you, try walking away and leaving the space for 30 seconds. Come back and try again. If your puppy is still biting, walk away and leave for 60 seconds before returning again.
Height: Puppy biting can often be more severe when they are on the same height as us (when we are on the floor, or if they are on the bed or couch). Teach your pup that any biting while you are on the same level as they are will result in either you getting up and moving away or them being removed from the couch/bed.

Conclusion

Puppy biting is a normal behavior that can be managed with the right strategies. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior and implementing effective techniques, you can help your puppy learn appropriate ways to interact with the world. Remember, patience and consistency are key, and soon enough, your puppy will grow out of this phase, becoming a well-mannered companion.

We tackle puppy biting management in our puppy courses and show you further ways of preventing your little land-shark from sinking their teeth into your hands or furniture. For more information, check out www.planetpup.ie

If you’re based in Cork and want hands-on guidance, explore:

• Puppy Training Classes

• Obedience Training

• Behaviour Consultations

Book a Session