How to Correct a Dog That Bites
A dog who bites may do so for one of several reasons. If the dog is still a puppy, she may not know any better, and it is time to start training her. Older dogs who bite are prone to do so because they did not learn proper socialization or their position within the "pack" structure of your family. Geriatric dogs may bite out of fear or pain. To cope with these mechanisms requires little in the way of supplies, but necessitates a lot of time and patience.
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Instructions
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Give a loud yelp of pain or make the vocal noise of "Ow!" Exaggerate the noise and withdraw yourself from any activity that you may be doing. This behavior mimics the behavior of a dog's pack mates and may be useful in the training of younger dogs.
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Tell the dog "No bite" in a firm voice. Give him the command to stay. Place a toy in front of the dog, and give the command that it is fine to resume playing, thereby redirecting the dog's biting into an appropriate medium--the toy.
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Walk away and ignore the dog if he nips at you again. Ignore all pleas for attention for a period of time until the dog has calmed down.
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Respond to your pup when she finally gets the message that biting is not okay. Praise her, and give her a treat.
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Socialize your dog with other dogs and humans. If you are met with an adverse reaction, begin to desensitize your dog by exposing them in a safe and controlled manner to the object of their fear, be it another person or dog. When the other enters the room, control your dog by means of physical restraint, up to and including a leash or muzzle. Even though growling may occur, give your dog a small treat. This associates the other person or dog with a good event.
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Tips & Warnings
Sometimes dogs will bite to communicate pain or a problem that they cannot otherwise effectively communicate. Seek help from your veterinarian if your dog suddenly becomes aggressive or bites.
Correcting and teaching a dog who bites may not always be effective. Seek the help of a trainer or veterinary specialist if the problem continues or worsens.
Do not physically reprimand the dog. Tapping, hitting, or spanking it will only reinforce the idea that aggression is a way to solve problems.
Dogs who are aggressive around other dogs may do so because of your behavior. When another dog comes around, act calm. Your dog may think that when you make a big deal out of it, they need to protect you from the other dogs. Reinforce the calm and cool behavior through socialization and desensitization techniques.
Teasing or playing with your dog by using your hands may give her the wrong idea. Until the biting problem is settled, refrain from using your hands. Sudden movements can be introduced into play after the initial problem has been settled.
