Joy’s Puppy’

10/28/2025

💙 Shihtzu

10/28/2025

Puppy biting is a normal developmental behavior, especially during teething and play. The objective is to teach bite inhibition and provide appropriate outlets. The most effective approach uses consistency and positive reinforcement.

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Key Strategies

1. Redirect to appropriate chew items

Provide durable chew toys. When the puppy bites hands or clothing, calmly replace with a toy.

Say “Take it”

Praise when chewing the toy

This teaches what is acceptable rather than only prohibiting the behavior.

2. Use a brief social interruption

If the puppy bites too hard during play:

Say “Ouch” or a high-pitched yelp once

Stop all interaction for 10 to 20 seconds

This mimics how littermates communicate bite limits.

3. Reward gentle mouth behavior

When the puppy licks or mouths softly:

Offer treats

Calm praise

Reinforcement of gentle behavior helps faster learning.

4. Exercise and mental stimulation

Biting often increases when a puppy is under-stimulated.

Frequent play sessions

Short training sessions

Puzzle feeders

Tired puppies are usually less nippy.

5. Avoid rough play with hands

No wrestling or letting the puppy chase hands or feet, which encourages biting behaviors.

6. Consistent rules with all humans

Everyone interacting with the puppy should respond the same way each time. Inconsistency prolongs the behavior.

Things to Avoid

Do not hit, flick, or hold the mouth shut. These can increase fear or aggression.

Do not yell or chase. This may feel like exciting play.

Tools That Can Help

Cold teething toys (soaked and frozen rope toys)

Bitter deterrent sprays on clothing or hands if necessary

Puppy obedience classes for structured socialization

Normal Timeline

Most puppies significantly improve by 4 to 6 months when training is consistent. Teething peaks around 3 to 5 months, so temporary increases in chewing and biting are expected.

10/28/2025

Here are clear and practical tips to reliably potty train a puppy:

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1. Establish a Consistent Schedule

Puppies thrive on routine. Take the puppy outside:

Immediately after waking up

After eating or drinking

After playtime

At least every 2–3 hours during the day

Consistency builds predictability in their bladder and behavior.

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2. Choose One Potty Location

Always take the puppy to the same spot. The scent cues reinforce the purpose of that location and speed up learning.

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3. Supervise Closely Indoors

Keep the puppy within view. Techniques include:

Leash-tethering to you in the house

Using baby gates to limit free roaming

Providing a crate that is just large enough to stand up, turn around, and lie down

Prevention of accidents is critical during early training.

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4. Use Crate Training Correctly

A crate supports bladder control if used properly:

Never use it as punishment

Give frequent breaks (young puppies cannot hold it long)

Provide calm praise when exiting the crate and going outside to eliminate

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5. Recognize Early Signals

Take the puppy out immediately if you observe:

Sniffing and circling

Wandering away from play

Sudden attention toward corners or rugs

Responding early prevents mistakes from becoming habits.

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6. Reward Instantly and Generously

Timing is essential. Praise and give a treat as soon as the puppy finishes going outside. Positive reinforcement teaches the correct behavior.

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7. Manage Water and Meal Times

Feed meals at set times. Remove water about two hours before bedtime, unless a veterinarian advises otherwise.

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8. Handle Accidents Calmly

If a mess happens:

Do not scold or rub the puppy’s nose in it

Clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove scent markers

Interrupting mid-accident gently and redirecting outside is acceptable, but never punish afterward.

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Expected Progress Timeline

Age Likely Holding Time

8–10 weeks 1 hour
10–12 weeks 2 hours
3–4 months 3–4 hours
6 months Near full control

Puppies vary, especially by breed and size, but patience and consistency lead to success.

09/28/2025

The one on the left might be staying lol

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