How to Stop Puppies From Biting Feet

Puppies are so dog-gone cute that sometimes we are tempted to let them get away with bad behavior.

Puppies playing is almost the definition of cute. They pounce, growl, and bite each other. But when puppies begin to bite you, it becomes less cute. Feet biting, especially in heeler breeds, should be stopped as soon as possible. Although it is a natural dog instinct to bite at feet, or anything that moves, for that matter, the behavior can be re-directed.

Things You'll Need

• Dog chew toys

Instructions

1. 

   Almost all puppies will chase moving prey.

   Carry a chew toy in your pocket. Always have one on hand to use to distract your puppy. If your puppy begins to chase and bite at your feet or grabs the leg of your pants, whip out the chew toy and offer it to him instead. This will re-direct his attention from your feet to the toy.

2. Sound a high-pitched "yelp" when your puppy bites at your feet. This simulates the sound the other puppies make when they bite at each other. It is the universal signal for "ouch, that hurts." If the yelp does not work, use a stern voice to say "ouch that hurts" or "too bad, you blew it."

3. 

   Do not let the puppy lick your feet or chew/bite on pants legs.

   Set your puppy up for a life lesson by applying a foul-tasting substance such as lemon juice or bitters (available in a spray bottle) to your feet and/or pant leg. Then, walk by your puppy when you see he is in a mood to be playful and bite at your feet. The foul taste will teach him that this behavior is not without consequences and he will learn that this is not the best way to play with you.

4. Provide your puppy with an abundance of toys and interesting things to explore so as to keep him occupied with his own things. If he is busy playing with his own toys he won't be so apt to come after your feet.

5. Teach your puppy the "leave it" command when he is old enough to begin training. When he bites or grabs at your feet or pant leg, tell him "leave it" and then reward with praise or a treat.

Tips & Warnings

• Enlist the help of a certified dog trainer if you cannot get your puppy to break this bad habit.

• Never slap or hit your puppy. This may only encourage him to come back at you harder, or will cause him to learn to be afraid of you.

References

• Clicker Training Solutions: Biting Pant Legs and Ankles
• Dog Obedience Training: How To Stop A Puppy from Biting

Resources

• ASPCA: Virtual Pet Behaviorist: Puppy Biting