Let’s Play Nice!: Bite Inhibition Made Easy

The 4 R’s

There are 4 simple steps to help your puppy learn to control their bites. With practice, you can teach your puppy to play gently and have fun without using their teeth too hard!

REMOVE: 
If your puppy bites too hard, say “Ouch” and stop playing. Take a break for a few seconds. This teaches them that      biting means no fun. If they keep biting, leave the room for a bit.

REPEAT: 
It takes practice! The more you stop playing after a hard bite, the faster your puppy will learn to be gentle.

REINFORCE: 
If your puppy plays gently, give them a treat or praise. This shows them that soft bites mean more playtime.

REDIRECT: 
Have chew toys ready for your puppy. If they bite your hands or clothes, gently give them a toy to chew instead. Praise them when they chew on the toy!

Bonus Tips:

🐾   Play a “Find It” game by tossing treats on the floor. This keeps their mouth busy with something fun, not your hands!

🐾   Start and end playtime when you want, not when the puppy decides.

🐾   If play gets too rough, stop right away.

🐾   Use fun toys, like latch ropes, to redirect biting.

Remember! Don’t give attention when your puppy does something wrong; even negative attention can encourage undesirable behavior!

This handout is sponsored by Arfordable Dog Training