Last update:November 23, 2024, 7:15 p.m. IST

It is important to train puppies early to prevent their behaviors from becoming problematic, especially when they involve biting or chasing people.

Training a puppy to stop biting and chase requires patience and consistency. (Representative image: AP)

Managing biting and chasing behaviors in puppies can be a challenge for pet owners, but with the right approach, it is entirely possible to guide your puppy into becoming a well-behaved companion. Just like human children who explore the world through touch and movement while learning to walk, puppies also explore their surroundings using their mouths. This often involves chewing on objects, chasing people or other animals, and even biting. Although these actions are a normal part of a puppy’s development, it is crucial to train them from the beginning to prevent these behaviors from becoming problematic, especially when they involve biting or chasing people.

Here are five proven strategies to help your puppy combat these behaviors:

1. Use positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool when training puppies. When your puppy behaves appropriately, such as not chasing people or biting, you should reward him with praise or treats. This encourages the puppy to associate good behavior with positive outcomes. For example, if your puppy refrains from biting or chasing, offer him a treat or favorite toy. This simple reward system helps them understand what behaviors are acceptable and encourages them to repeat those actions.

2. Make playtime part of their routine

Like young children, puppies have a lot of energy that needs to be channeled into constructive activities. Schedule a set time each day for outdoor play, such as playing fetch or running around the yard. This helps tire your puppy out and provides an outlet for excess energy, which can reduce the risk of chasing or biting around the house. Regular physical activity not only keeps them fit and healthy, but also promotes a calmer temperament.

3. Use clear and consistent commands

Puppies respond best to clear, consistent instructions. When you need to stop them from biting or chasing, avoid lengthy scolding or yelling. Instead, use simple commands such as “No” or “Stop” and accompany the words with a firm hand gesture, such as raising your hand to make a “stop” signal. Be sure to maintain a serious tone and expression. This helps the puppy understand that his behavior is not acceptable. Consistency is key: always use the same words and signals so your puppy can easily recognize and understand them.

4. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

Puppies, especially between six and seven months, go through a teething phase. During this time, they often chew whatever they can find to relieve the discomfort caused by their growing teeth. Instead of scolding him for biting inappropriate objects, offer him a variety of chew toys. These toys can help redirect their chewing behavior and give them the relief they need. Chew toys also give your puppy something to focus on, reducing the risk of him biting or chasing people or furniture.

5. Seek professional help if necessary

If your puppy’s biting or chasing behavior persists despite your best efforts, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. An expert can assess your puppy’s behavior and provide personalized advice and techniques to resolve the problem. In some cases, persistent aggression or excessive biting may be related to underlying physical or emotional issues. A professional can help identify any health concerns or behavioral triggers and provide a more effective training plan.

Training a puppy to stop biting and chase takes patience and consistency, but the results are worth it. By using positive reinforcement, providing plenty of play time, issuing clear commands, offering appropriate toys, and seeking expert help when necessary, you can ensure that your puppy grows up to be a companion calm and well behaved.