How to Train Dog Not to Bite

Contributor

By Rena Sherwood
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (2 Ratings)

All dogs can bite, but all dogs can be trained not to

A biting dog is a very serious matter. Many people have a bad phobia of dogs because they were bitten as children. If your dog bites, he or she could be taken away by the authorities and put down. This is an easily preventable tragedy by training your puppy or dog not to bite. You need to tell him that biting is not an option, and do it in a way that other dogs would.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Dog or puppy
Dog's favorite chew toy
Patience
Bitter apple spray (optional)

Substitute Bad Behavior for Good Behavior

Step 1

Make a loud noise, like a yip, as if you are in a great deal of pain when your dog or puppy bites you. Dogs use yips to tell other dogs, "Ouch!"
Step 2

Purposely startle your dog with this loud, sudden noise. When he takes his mouth off of you, praise.
Step 3

Provide alternatives: If you catch your dog or puppy biting an object she shouldn't, such as a shoe, present a toy or treat the dog is allowed to chew on. Don't give this to you dog until she drops the shoe.
Step 4

Repeat every single time the dog puts his mouth on something he shouldn't.
Step 5

Use a bitter apple spray (called "training spray" or "chew deterrent") on your hands or furniture and this will make these items taste really bad to your dog.

Tips & Warnings

If you are not sure if your dog will bite, have her wear a muzzle before going out in public. If your dog starts biting for no reason, take him to the vet. The biting could be a sign that he is in pain. Start this training inside your home, where there are fewer distractions, then move outside to your yard. Get a professional dog trainer for help, if necessary.
Never hit your dog. That will only teach your dog to be scared of people, which will make him even MORE apt to bite.

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