Puppies can be full of surprises—from those sudden nips during playtime to the endless curiosity that leads to chewing on everything in sight. Understanding why your new Cane Corso or French Bulldog pup acts this way can make training and bonding much smoother.

Table of Contents

• Why Do Puppies Bite?
• How to Manage Puppy Biting
• The Urge to Chew: Why Puppies Love to Chew on Everything
• Tips for Preventing Destructive Chewing
• Why Puppies Bark: Understanding the Different Types of Barking
• How to Address Excessive Barking
• Nurturing Well-Behaved Puppies
• FAQs

Why Do Puppies Bite?

Biting is a completely natural behavior in puppies, and it serves several purposes. It’s important to remember that when puppies bite, they aren’t doing it to be aggressive. Here are some of the main reasons why puppies tend to bite:

Teething:

Between the ages of 3 to 6 months, puppies go through a teething phase. During this time, their gums are sore as their adult teeth start coming in, and they will chew or bite to relieve the discomfort.

Exploring Their World:

Puppies experience the world through their mouths, much like how toddlers explore with their hands. Biting, nibbling, and chewing help them understand their environment, whether they’re investigating a new toy, a shoe, or your hand.

Play Behavior:

Biting is a common way for puppies to interact with their littermates. When a puppy bites too hard, their siblings will yelp, teaching them to bite more gently. This behavior often carries over to playing with humans.

Seeking Attention:

Sometimes, puppies bite because they’re excited or seeking attention. If you respond every time your puppy nips at you, they may learn that this behavior gets them the attention they want.

How to Manage Puppy Biting

While biting is natural, it’s crucial to teach your puppy boundaries so they don’t grow up thinking biting is acceptable behavior. Here are some effective ways to manage and redirect your puppy’s biting:

• Redirect Their Attention: When your puppy starts biting, offer them a chew toy instead. This teaches them that toys, not hands or furniture, are for chewing.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy with treats or praise when they stop biting or play gently. Positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat good behavior.
• Teach Bite Inhibition: If your puppy bites you during play, let out a high-pitched “ouch” to mimic how their siblings would react. This helps them understand that their bite is too hard. Follow it up by ignoring them for a short time to show that rough play stops the fun.
• Stay Consistent: Consistency is key. Make sure all family members respond to biting in the same way, so your puppy doesn’t get mixed signals.

The Urge to Chew: Why Puppies Love to Chew on Everything

Chewing is another behavior that can frustrate new dog parents, especially when it leads to destroyed shoes or furniture. But understanding the reasons behind this urge can help you manage it more effectively.

Teething Discomfort:

Just like biting, chewing helps puppies relieve the pain of their growing teeth. This is especially true for breeds like Cane Corsos and French Bulldogs, whose powerful jaws make chewing even more satisfying for them.

Boredom and Energy Release:

Puppies are bundles of energy, and if they don’t get enough mental and physical stimulation, they may turn to chewing as an outlet. It’s their way of occupying themselves when there’s not much else to do.

Curiosity:

Puppies are naturally curious, and chewing helps them explore different textures and tastes. It’s part of their development as they learn what’s safe and what isn’t.

Separation Anxiety:

Some puppies chew out of anxiety, especially when they’re left alone. Chewing can be a self-soothing behavior that helps them cope with stress.

Tips for Preventing Destructive Chewing

While you can’t stop your puppy from chewing entirely, you can guide them toward acceptable items to chew and reduce destructive behavior:

• Provide Chew Toys: Offer a variety of chew toys that are appropriate for your puppy’s size and chewing strength. Rubber toys, rope toys, and treat-dispensing toys can keep them engaged for longer.
• Puppy-Proof Your Home: Make sure to keep items you don’t want chewed, like shoes or remote controls, out of reach. This will limit your puppy’s access to tempting but off-limits items.
• Exercise and Playtime: Make sure your puppy gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A tired puppy is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. Playtime with your Cane Corso or French Bulldog is also a great way to bond.
• Use Bitter Sprays: Spraying a bitter-tasting solution on furniture can deter your puppy from chewing on it. These sprays are safe and create an unpleasant taste without harming your dog.

Why Puppies Bark: Understanding the Different Types of Barking

Barking is one of the ways puppies communicate with their owners and their surroundings. It can be endearing, but it can also be excessive if not managed properly. Here’s a breakdown of the common reasons why puppies bark:

Attention-Seeking:

Just like with biting, some puppies bark to get your attention. If barking leads to being picked up or getting treats, they may learn to use it as a way to get what they want.

Alarm or Alert Barking:

Puppies may bark when they hear strange noises or see something unfamiliar. This is a natural instinct to alert you of a potential threat, even if it’s just the mail carrier.

Fear or Anxiety:

If your puppy is scared or feels threatened, they may bark as a response. This is common during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when encountering new environments.

Playfulness and Excitement:

Barking can also be a sign of excitement during playtime. It’s their way of expressing joy when they’re playing fetch or wrestling with their favorite toy.

Territorial Behavior:

As puppies grow, they can become more protective of their space. They might bark when someone approaches the door or if other animals come near their territory.

How to Address Excessive Barking

If your puppy’s barking is becoming a problem, there are ways to address it without stifling their natural urge to communicate:

• Ignore Attention-Seeking Barking: When your puppy barks for attention, avoid giving in. Instead, reward them with praise and treats when they are quiet. This teaches them that being calm gets them what they want.
• Desensitize to Triggers: If your puppy barks at specific sounds or sights, gradually expose them to those triggers in a controlled way. This can help reduce their sensitivity over time.
• Create a Calm Environment: Puppies are more likely to bark when they’re overstimulated or anxious. Make sure they have a quiet space where they can retreat if things get too hectic.
• Teach the ‘Quiet’ Command: Training your puppy to respond to a “quiet” command can be helpful. When they stop barking on cue, reward them with a treat. With practice, they’ll learn to associate being quiet with positive outcomes.

Nurturing Well-Behaved Puppies

At Diamond Empire Kennel, we believe that every puppy has the potential to become a well-behaved member of your family with the right guidance and care. Whether you’re raising a curious Cane Corso or a playful French Bulldog, understanding their natural behaviors like biting, chewing, and barking is key to creating a loving, respectful bond. Patience, consistency, and lots of love are all you need to help your puppy grow into their best self.

Ready to bring home a new furry family member? Reach out to Diamond Empire Kennel today at 702.979.8829 or contact us here to find the perfect puppy for your home. We’re here to guide you every step of the way as you embark on this joyful journey.

FAQs

• How long does the teething phase last for puppies?

The teething phase typically lasts until a puppy is about 6 months old, but it can vary slightly depending on the breed. During this time, providing chew toys can help soothe their sore gums.

• How can I discourage my puppy from biting my hands and feet?

Redirect their attention to a toy whenever they bite, and use positive reinforcement when they play gently. Consistency in this approach is key.

• Is it normal for puppies to bark at every new noise?

Yes, it’s normal for puppies to be alert and bark at unfamiliar sounds as they are learning about their environment. Desensitizing them gradually can help reduce this behavior.

• What are the best toys for heavy chewers like Cane Corsos?

For breeds with strong jaws like Cane Corsos, durable rubber toys, rope toys, and treat-dispensing toys are great options. Make sure they are designed for tough chewers to avoid choking hazards.

• Can separation anxiety in puppies be managed?

Yes, you can help manage separation anxiety by gradually increasing the time your puppy spends alone, creating a comforting space for them, and using calming toys or puzzles to keep them occupied.