A dog expert has dished the details on why your puppy might be biting – and what mistakes owners make that exacerbate the issue.
Getting a puppy is a massive decision that brings with it a lot of responsibility. Though dogs can be incredible sources of love, joy and laughter, they do require a lot of care and attention so it’s not a choice that should be rushed or entered into lightly.
Puppies are known for going through phases of chewing and biting, as well as having accidents indoors while they learn where they’re supposed to do their toileting business. Some new owners really struggle with their puppy biting but one pro may have the solution.
Canine behaviourist Will Atherton has garnered a dedicated following on social media after sharing his years of expertise and insight on why dogs may be acting a certain way, as well as tips and advice on how to rectify any unwanted issues.
In one recent Instagram video, the expert offered his thoughts on the way to prevent puppies from continuing with the biting phase – as well as the common mistake owners make which can lead to the biting in the first place.
What mistake can make puppies bite?
In the video, Will explained owners’ desire to shower their puppy with love and attention could be causing or exacerbating biting problems.
He said: “Puppy biting can be incredibly frustrating but the worst thing is, if you’re accidentally making the puppy biting even worse.
“These are the mistakes people make that makes puppy biting way worse than it should be and preventing you from getting past it. I know your puppy’s cute and you want to play with them and give them loads of attention but every time that you increase your puppy’s arousal, the likelihood that they’re going to bite is going to happen more often.
“I want to highly encourage you to make sure that you’re doing everything you can to teach your puppy to be calm – no matter the situation – so they grow up to be relaxed canine companions in the future.”
He then explained: “Make sure you’re providing them alternatives. If they make the mistake of puppy biting you, you have to interrupt them and communicate that that’s not what we need from them, otherwise they’ll never learn that that is a mistake, and something they should stop doing.”
He added: “We need to be fair and make sure that we redirect them to something that we do want them to chew on, and then praise and reward them when they do, so that they learn ‘okay, I don’t chew on these things, but I can chew on these things.’”
Before getting a dog, it’s important to do your research. It’s also worth bearing in mind that training is essential, and not all dogs are suitable for first time owners.
If you’re looking to welcome a dog into your home, consider the benefits of adopting a puppy or dog from a charity or local shelter instead of shopping from a breeder.
