Author: Evie Van Hove

My dog bites me: what can I do?

If your dog bites you, it can be shocking and upsetting. Whether it is playful biting, a reaction to fear, or aggression, it is important to take this behaviour seriously and address it. In this blog, we look at the possible causes of biting behaviour and offer solutions to help your dog stop this behaviour.

1. Why is your dog biting you?

Dogs can bite for various reasons, and it is crucial to understand what causes it. Here are some common reasons why dogs may bite their owners:
 

1.1. Playfulness

Young dogs and puppies in particular often bite out of playfulness. For them, biting is a way of exploring the world and communicating. This behaviour may seem harmless, but it is important to manage it before it becomes a habit.
 

1.2. Fear or stress

A dog that feels threatened or anxious may bite in self-defence. This often happens when your dog is in a situation where he feels trapped or overwhelmed. For example, it can happen when someone approaches him unexpectedly or if he is afraid of loud noises.
 

1.3. Pain or discomfort

Dogs in pain may bite as a way of letting you know they are experiencing discomfort. This can happen if you accidentally press on a sore spot or if your dog has an injury or medical condition.
 

1.4. Protective instinct

Some dogs bite out of an instinct to protect a resource, such as food, toys, or their territory. This behaviour can also occur when your dog views you as a resource (for example: a source of affection) and believes it needs to protect it from a perceived threat (in this case, a threat that might take this resource away from him).
 

1.5. Inappropriate learned behaviour

If a dog has ever been rewarded for biting, even unintentionally, he may repeat this behaviour. For example, if a dog bites playfully and gets more attention as a result, he may learn that biting is a way of getting your attention.

2. How can you stop biting?

Addressing biting behaviour requires patience and a thoughtful approach. Here are some strategies to reduce or stop your dog's biting:
 

2.1. Teach your dog what is and is not allowed

It is important to make it clear to your dog what behaviour is acceptable and what behaviour is not. Use positive reinforcement to teach your dog what you expect from him.
 

1. Use verbal cues: When your dog bites you, calmly and firmly say ‘no’ or ‘ouch’, and immediately stop the interaction. This signal makes it clear that the biting is unacceptable.
2. Reward good behaviour: When your dog plays appropriately without biting, reward him with praise, a treat, or playtime. This will teach him that good behaviour has positive consequences.
    

2.2. Offer alternatives

Make sure your dog has suitable objects to chew and play on. If he tends to bite your hands or clothes, offer him a toy as an alternative.

1. Toys and chew bones: Give your dog something to bite on that is specially designed for dogs. This will allow him to express his biting needs without hurting you.
2. Direct his energy towards toys: If you notice your dog getting excited and starting to bite, redirect his energy towards a toy or game that channels biting behaviour.
    

2.3. Reduce anxiety and stress

If your dog bites because of anxiety or stress, you need to work on reducing the triggers that cause these feelings. This can be done through desensitisation and counter-conditioning, where you slowly get your dog used to the things that cause him anxiety, while at the same time offering him something positive, such as treats.
 

1. Create a safe environment: Make sure your dog always feels safe in his environment. This means not forcing him to face situations he is afraid of.
2. Let your dog get used to new situations calmly: Introduce new people, environments or other dogs gradually and in a way that does not overwhelm your dog.
    

2.4. Avoid punishment

It is tempting to punish your dog if he bites, but this can often do more harm than good. Punishment can lead to more fear and aggression, which can exacerbate biting behaviour. It is better to focus on reinforcing positive behaviour and providing alternatives to biting.
 

2.5. Provide adequate exercise and stimulation

A tired dog is often an obedient dog. Make sure your dog gets enough physical and mental stimulation to avoid boredom and excess energy, which can lead to biting behaviour.

1. Daily exercise: Walks, games and other activities help to physically exhaust your dog, making him less inclined to bite. It is important to leave enough room for sniffing, as this has a calming effect and requires a lot of energy.
2. Mental challenges: Play interactive games with your dog or give him puzzle toys to keep his mind occupied.
    

3. When should you seek professional help?

If your dog's biting behaviour is severe or persists despite your best efforts, it may be helpful to bring in a professional dog trainer or behaviour therapist. These experts can help identify the specific triggers of the biting behaviour and create an appropriate training programme to address the problem.
 

Conclusion
 

Biting is a normal part of a dog's behaviour, but it is important to manage it appropriately. By understanding why your dog bites and through consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can control this behaviour and help your dog interact in a safe and friendly manner.

It is crucial to remain patient and guide your dog towards better behaviour. With the right approach and support, your dog can learn that biting is not the way to express himself, and will become a happier and better adjusted member of your family.
 

Evie Van Hove is PgD Clinical Animal Behaviour, certified puppy coach, dog trainer and behaviour coach. She has been business manager of Pettherapy.be since 2021.