Training Tips To Stop Dogs Biting And Nipping
Aggression in dogs is defined as threatening or harmful behavior that is directed toward another
living creature. This includes snarling, growling, snapping, nipping, biting and lunging. Over 4-
million people each year get bitten by dogs. Some aggression is due to fear, while other types
are about territory and pack status. It is important to remember that aggressive behavior is
natural for a dog. It is their way of defending themselves and their territories. But a dog that
bites people because of problems with aggression is a serious danger and needs immediate
attention. All contributors recommended seeking professional help for dogs that are biting
and snapping due to aggression problems.
Some owners pointed out that they also wanted their dogs to bite if a burglar came into the house
or another dog was threatening their child. Others in this group felt that biting is such a natural
part of what dogs do that to take that out of the animal would be to force it to behave in a way
that is unnatural.
How To Stop a Dog From Biting or Nipping
1.) ACT LIKE A MOTHER DOG
A mother dog is very effective in training her offspring to bite and play appropriately. Instead of
using verbal commands that may be way beyond a new puppy’s learning abilities, trainers and
pet care professionals suggest using the same motions and reactions a mother dog uses with her
pups.
When the dog bites too hard, make a sharp squealing noise or say the word “Ouch!” in a loud,
high-pitched voice. This expression of pain or indignation will send a message to the dog in a
language she uses every day. Although this squeal will likely stop the dog initially, she often
resumes biting after a brief pause. When this occurs, growl sharply at the dog, showing your
teeth, and then get up and walk away. This sends a
message to the dog that says if she insists on biting
too hard, then there will be no playtime.
If the dog still doesn’t get the message and chases
after you continuin g to bite, grab her by the scruff and give a sharp shake, then continue to walk
away. You can say the command, “No bite” or something similar in a low, growly voice to help
get the point across.
2.) ALPHA ROLL
For dogs that bite too hard during play or who won’t stop biting in response to other methods,
give the dog an Alpha roll, which consists of flipping her over on her back and holding her until
she calms down and quits biting. Scold the dog in a deep voice, or tell her “No bite” while you
do this. Be careful not to flip the dog, especially a young puppy, too hard. You are forcing the
dog to be submissive, not trying to inflict pain.
3.) AVOID TUG OF WAR GAMES AND WRESTLING THAT INVOLVE BITING
Tug of war and mock attacks encourage the dog to use her teeth inappropriately. In tug of war,
the harder a dog bites, the more likely she will end up with the toy, especially if she shakes her
head a bit while biting. This is very dangerous behavior to encourage in a dog, particularly those
who are closer to the alpha end of the pecking order.
4.) APPLY PRESSURE TO THE TOP OF THE DOG’S MUZZLE
Wrap your fingers around the dog’s jaws and apply firm pressure to the top of the muzzle while
saying “NO” or a similar verbal command in a low tone of voice to simulate growling. This
technique is also similar to the actions a mother dog would take with one of her pups.
5.) USE TABASCO, LEMON JUICE, OR OTHER FLAVORED DETERRENT
As suggested for excessive barking problems, this method of applying a distasteful substance to
your skin or directly on the dog’s tongue can be effective. Timing is key, and using a verbal
command in combination will eventually eliminate the need for the flavored deterrent. Several
commercial products can be safely used on human skin or on gloves.