Border Collie puppies are popular for their boundless energy, and intelligence. But they can also be notorious for their biting habits. While this behavior is natural, it’s crucial to curb it early.
It’s normal to ensure a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend. But it is not natural, if your puppy bites you very often. So, how to stop a border collie puppy biting? If you identify the problem and be aware of it, train it properly, it will stop biting you and others.
In this comprehensive guide, I will take you deeper into the reasons behind Border Collie puppy biting. By following these techniques and tips, you can raise a well-behaved and happy Border Collie
Why do Border Collie Puppies Bite?
Understanding the underlying motivations behind your Border Collie puppy’s biting behavior is fundamental to addressing the issue effectively. Let’s explore these factors more comprehensively:
1. Teething Phase
Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase, which usually occurs between three to six months of age. During this period, your puppy’s gums may feel sore. And that’s why they instinctively use biting and chewing to soothe the discomfort.
2. Playfulness and Exploration
Border Collies are renowned for their playful and curious nature. Biting is not only a form of play for them but also a means of exploring their surroundings. This behavior is especially pronounced if your puppy is part of a litter, as they use their mouths to interact and learn about the world.
3. Social Interaction
Puppies learn bite inhibition and appropriate levels of force through social interactions with their littermates and mother. If this learning process is disrupted, they may not develop this crucial skill. Or if they’re removed from their littermates too early, they may lead to biting issues.
When Do Border Collie Puppies Stop Biting?
Border Collie puppies typically stop biting as they grow older and mature. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of when this behavior is likely to cease:
Teething Phase (3 to 6 months)
This is the most intense period of biting as your puppy’s baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in. Biting is a natural response to alleviate gum discomfort. However, it gradually decreases as the teething phase subsides.
Puppy Adolescence (6 to 18 months)
While the intensity of biting decreases, it may still continue during this phase. Puppies are learning and exploring boundaries. So some level of biting is normal.
Adult Stage (18 months and older)
If you give your puppy proper training, or socialization, it will may stop biting. And when you provide consistent reinforcement of bite inhibition, most Border Collies outgrow their biting tendencies as they enter adulthood.
How to Stop A Border Collie Puppy Biting
Now, let’s dive into more detailed strategies to effectively stop your Border Collie puppy from biting:
1. Act As Puppies Or Children
If you have children, it’s vital to teach them how to interact safely with the puppy. Supervise their interactions closely to ensure that the puppy doesn’t become overwhelmed and resort to biting as a defensive reaction.
2. Don’t Let It Be Over-Tired
An overtired puppy can become irritable and more prone to biting. Ensure your puppy gets enough rest by providing a comfortable and quiet space for naps. Establish a regular sleep schedule to help regulate their energy levels.
3. Fix Routine
Establishing a consistent evening routine helps your puppy understand when it’s time to wind down. A predictable schedule can reduce restlessness and excessive biting in the evening. Include a short playtime session to expend any remaining energy before bedtime.
4. Reward Good Behavior
Incorporate positive reinforcement by praising and rewarding your puppy when they exhibit calm behavior. Offering treats, affection, and gentle praise helps reinforce the idea that being gentle and relaxed earns them positive attention.
5. Give Toys Or Treats By Your Hand
Always have a selection of appropriate chew toys and treats readily available. When your puppy starts biting, immediately redirect their attention to these items. This not only satisfies their need to chew but also teaches them what is acceptable to bite.
6. It’s a Phase
It’s crucial to remind yourself that biting is often a phase that puppies go through as they learn about their world. With consistent training and patience, most Border Collies naturally grow out of it as they mature.
How Do You Discipline a Border Collie Puppy?
When disciplining your Border Collie puppy for biting, opt for positive and gentle techniques:
Yelping
If your puppy bites too hard during play, mimic the response of a littermate by making a high-pitched yelp or saying “ouch.” This signals to your puppy that they’ve hurt you, helping them learn to use a softer bite.
Time-Out
If the biting persists, give your puppy a brief time-out in a quiet area to allow them to calm down. This teaches them that excessive biting results in a loss of playtime.
Positive Reinforcement
Encourage good behavior by rewarding your puppy with treats, praise, and affection when they refrain from biting during play or interactions. Emphasize gentle play.
Consistent Commands
Use consistent verbal commands like “no” or “stop” when your puppy begins to bite. Maintain a firm but not aggressive tone to convey your expectations clearly.
FAQs
Do Border Collie Bites Hurt?
Yes, Border Collie bites can hurt, particularly during the teething phase when their jaws are strong and their teeth are sharp. Proper training helps them learn to control the force of their bite.
How Long Before a Border Collie Puppy Stops Biting?
Most Border Collie puppies stop excessive biting by the time they reach 18 months of age. However, the timeline can vary among individual dogs, making patience and consistent training essential.
Why Is My Border Collie So Aggressive?
Aggression in Border Collies can result from various factors, such as fear, lack of socialization, or even an underlying medical issue. If your Border Collie displays aggression, consult a professional dog trainer or veterinarian for a thorough assessment and guidance.
Final Words
If your puppy bites you constantly, how to stop a border collie puppy biting? Dealing with a biting Border Collie puppy can be challenging. But with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can guide them.
If you act them with patience, they become a well-behaved and affectionate companion. Keep in mind that every puppy is unique.
And the key is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for them to learn and thrive. So, try all the way I’ve mentioned and you can stop biting of your Border Collie. If failed, try to consult a vet for more information.