If you’ve recently brought a puppy home, you’ve probably asked yourself this question: “Why does my puppy bite everything… including me?” Your hands, clothes, shoes, furniture — nothing seems safe. But here’s the good news: puppy biting is completely normal. Let’s break down why puppies bite so much, what it really means, and how to guide them gently through this stage.

Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase. Between 3 and 6 months, their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth grow in. Biting helps puppies: relieve gum pain reduce pressure in the mouth explore textures distract themselves from discomfort This stage is uncomfortable, not aggressive.

Puppies don’t have hands — they use their mouths instead. Everything is new, exciting, and worth testing. They bite to: explore objects understand boundaries investigate smells and textures interact with humans This is normal developmental behavior

When puppies play with their littermates, they bite each other. If a bite is too hard, the other puppy yelps — teaching limits. When puppies are adopted too early or don’t get clear feedback, they may not learn bite inhibition properly. That’s why gentle correction and consistency are important.

Puppies often bite when they’re: overstimulated overtired overly excited overwhelmed Zoomies, jumping, and biting often go together. A biting puppy may actually be saying: “I need a break.”

Hands move, react, squeak, and pull away — making them far more exciting than toys. To puppies, hands feel like: interactive objects play partners moving targets That’s why redirection is key

Never punish a puppy for biting. Instead, teach them what to do. 

 ✔ What works: redirect to chew toys freeze your hand when bitten calmly say “ouch” or “no bite” stop play immediately if biting continues reward calm behavior Consistency is more important than force.

Many biting issues disappear when puppies get enough sleep. Puppies need 18–20 hours of sleep per day. Overtired puppies bite more. A structured routine helps regulate emotions and behavior.

While most biting is normal, consult a vet or trainer if your puppy: growls aggressively bites with fear shows stiff posture doesn’t respond to redirection draws blood repeatedly These signs need professional guidance.

Puppy biting is not bad behavior — it’s communication, development, and learning. With patience, consistency, and love, this phase passes. The biting puppy becomes a gentle, well-mannered companion. You’re not failing. You’re raising a dog. And you’re doing better than you think 💛