MODULE 4:
The Puppy Teething Phase
Video 1:
Puppy biting is a normal part of development. Puppies explore the world with their mouths and use mouthing as a way to interact and play. However, biting can often become more intense when a puppy is overtired or overstimulated. Young puppies need a huge amount of sleep each day, and when they don’t get enough rest they can quickly become overwhelmed, much like an overtired toddler. At these times they may struggle to regulate their arousal levels, which can lead to more frantic or persistent biting. Recognising when a puppy may simply need rest or a break can make a big difference in helping them settle and learn more appropriate ways to interact.
Video 2:
Calm handling is really important when supporting a puppy through the biting stage. When puppies become excited or overwhelmed, their arousal levels rise and they can find it much harder to control their behaviour. Responding with calm, gentle movements and a quiet voice helps prevent adding more stimulation to an already heightened moment. If we react with fast movements, loud voices, or lots of physical interaction, it can unintentionally increase excitement and lead to even more biting. Staying calm helps puppies feel safe, lowers arousal, and supports them in settling more easily.
Video 3:
Kongs and licki mats can be really helpful tools when supporting a puppy who is struggling with biting or finding it hard to settle. Licking and chewing are natural, calming behaviours for dogs and can help lower arousal levels. Offering a stuffed KONG or using a LickiMat with puppy-safe foods can give your puppy an appropriate outlet for these behaviours while encouraging calmness. They are especially useful during busy times of day or when your puppy may be overtired, as they help redirect energy into a soothing activity.
Video 4:
Treat balls and snuffle mats are great enrichment tools for young puppies. They encourage puppies to use their natural foraging and problem-solving behaviours, which can help burn mental energy in a calm and productive way. Instead of eating food quickly from a bowl, puppies work to find or release their food, which naturally slows them down and encourages focus. Activities like this can be especially helpful for puppies who become easily overstimulated, as sniffing and searching are calming behaviours that help lower arousal and support relaxation.
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Here is the link for: Paddock Farm Pate
Here is the link for: Kong wobbler
Here is the link for: Kong treatball
