The way you handle your puppy can have a big influence on how much they mouth and bite. Puppies can become overstimulated very quickly, and fast hand movements, rough play and too much fussing can encourage them to use their mouths during interaction.
Avoid using your hands for rough play, fast tummy tickling or excessive fussing around your puppy's face and head. Although this may seem harmless when they are very young, it can encourage mouthing and biting, which can become much harder once they start teething.
Instead, aim for calm, gentle handling. Use slow, comfortable strokes and consider your puppy's mood before reaching to touch them. When your puppy is already excited or lively, reducing handling can help prevent them becoming even more stimulated.
Not every puppy enjoys being stroked in the same way or at the same time. Learn to notice what your puppy is telling you.
If they move away when you try to stroke them, give them some space rather than following them. If they turn around and mouth you when you stroke their head, consider whether they actually wanted to be touched at that moment, or whether that particular type of handling is encouraging them to bite.
Take some time to work out:
• When your puppy is most comfortable being stroked.
• Which areas they prefer to be touched.
• When they are more likely to become excited or mouth you.
Some puppies may prefer being stroked on their sides or chest rather than over the top of their head. The aim is to understand your individual puppy and adjust your handling accordingly.
Build positive experiences with handling
Your puppy still needs to become comfortable with being handled around different parts of their body. Practise this when they are calm and relaxed, or even sleepy.
Gently introduce touch around their face, ears, mouth and paws while they are settled. Avoid doing this when they are highly excited and already trying to mouth you, as this can turn handling into another opportunity for biting.
What to practise
Over the next few days, pay attention to how your puppy responds to your handling. Notice what they enjoy, what causes them to become more excited, and when they are most relaxed and receptive to touch.
Keeping your interactions calm and responding to your puppy's signals will help you build better handling habits and reduce opportunities for unwanted mouthing and biting.
