The deep loyalty of German shepherds shows in the way they always protect and care for those they love. However, many young puppies of this breed bite a lot as they play, explore, and learn about their world.
If you keep ignoring this biting, it may grow into a bad habit that can cause problems later. That’s why it’s important to stop biting as soon as possible. Many people find it tricky but with effective steps, you can train your German shepherd puppy to stop biting easily.
Keep reading this article to be well-equipped with those right steps.
What makes German Shepherd Puppies Bite a lot?
Before we go over the steps to stop biting, we need to look at why it happens. Out of several reasons, the following are the major ones:
Normal Puppy Behavior
German shepherd puppies bite often as it is normal puppy behavior. They explore their world with their mouths, biting to learn about different textures. Also, when their teeth are growing, it hurts, so they bite to feel better. They also bite during playtime because it’s fun for them.
Breed-specific traits
One of the biting reasons is because of their breed traits. They have strong herding instincts. That means they have a natural protective nature and high energy levels. Due to these traits, they are more likely to nip and chew, especially when they’re young, excited, or alert.
Anxiety or Fear
These pet buddies may bite when they feel anxious or scared. For example, loud noises, new places, or being alone can stress them out. That’s why, they might bite to protect themselves. But a calm, safe, and loving place can help reduce this behavior.
How do you make your German Shepherd Puppy Stop Biting?
Here are 4 surefire techniques to make your German Shepherd puppy stop biting:
1. The howling game
When your puppy bites, instead of screaming, start howling like “Owwwwwww” in a high-pitched voice. Remember, don’t pull your hand away immediately. Instead, keep it still and relaxed in their mouth until they let it go.
It’s just because puppies naturally chase and bite harder if you jerk your hand back. On top of that, it teaches them human skin isn’t a toy because it doesn’t react like one.
After that, stop playing and turn your back to your puppy, withdrawing your attention. This shows them that biting leads to no fun.
Now, wait a few seconds before continuing to play. Keep doing this, you’ll notice that your German shepherd puppy’s biting force will reduce from 10 to 9 to 8, and so on.
Note: This tip is to train your very young puppies.
2. Tug-of-War
Playing tug-of-war can be beneficial in teaching self-control. Here you should use a strong toy and let your puppy tug. But always stay in control. If your puppy bites the toy too hard, offer them the treat. To achieve that, teach the “leave it” command.
For example, say “Leave it” and as soon as they follow, present them Kibble. This will redirect their mind and energy right away. Now, every time you use this command when they’re being too forceful, they’ll learn that staying calm will get them Kibble (use more recipes that your dogs love to eat).
3. Hand targeting
Hand targeting is the simplest way to stop puppy aggressive biting. You teach your puppy to touch your hand with its nose instead of using its mouth. In this technique, you start by holding out your hand and rewarding your puppy with a treat every time it touches your hand with its nose.
This action will help them learn that touching your hand earns rewards, not biting. Use a cheerful voice in the gameplay. The more you are polite, the more they enjoy and love to learn it.
4. Quiet Praise for a Quiet Mouth
Every time your pup picks up a chew toy instead of nipping at your fingers, let him know he made a good choice. Say “good job” in a quiet tone and give him a soft rub.
This praise should also be given when you find your buddy sitting quietly or just lying down without trying to bite or jump. Avoid offering high-value treats. Keep it low-key so he stays relaxed and focused.
Your two-word praise with a simple treat is a secret way to train your German shepherd puppy to stop biting. Believe me!
So, these are the best-proven strategies to turn your puppy into the talk of the town for being well-behaved. Just remember, it’s not a one-night game. It requires your patience and time but that’s really worthwhile.
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FAQs
How can I train my German shepherd puppy to stop biting?
To train your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting, use simple techniques like howling “ooowwwwwowww” instead of screaming, and keeping your hand inside the mouth still until they let it go. Plus, you can use tug-of-war game rule, and when your pup tugs the toy and starts biting it with high force, command “leave it”, and as they follow, offer the treat with their favorite food. Moreover, you can go for hand targeting strategy. But remember, consistency and patience are key to reducing biting over time.
Why do German shepherd puppies bite a lot?
German Shepherd puppies bite a lot for various reasons. Firstly, it’s normal behavior in dogs; secondly, it’s breed-specific traits; and lastly, it may happen when they experience anxiety or fear.
