Mouthing in Dogs: Why It Happens and How to Handle ItMouthing is a normal and natural behaviour, especially in puppies. Dogs don’t have hands — their mouths are how they explore the world, play, and interact. While mouthing is not aggression, it can be uncomfortable or painful for humans, particularly when puppies have sharp teeth. Learning how to guide this behaviour safely is an important part of early training and relationship building.
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. Author Sarah Mahmood . 6th July 2024
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What Is Mouthing?
Mouthing refers to a dog placing their teeth on skin or clothing and gently closing their mouth. Although it may look rough to us, mouthing is how puppies play with littermates and learn about their environment.
Importantly, mouthing is not biting and is not a sign of aggression. It becomes a problem only when dogs haven’t learned how much pressure is appropriate or that human skin is more sensitive than toys.
Importantly, mouthing is not biting and is not a sign of aggression. It becomes a problem only when dogs haven’t learned how much pressure is appropriate or that human skin is more sensitive than toys.
Why Do Dogs Mouth?
Dogs mouth because:
- It’s a natural way they explore and interact
- Puppies learn social skills through mouth-based play
- Mouthing relieves discomfort during teething
- It’s how dogs engage during play and excitement
Why Teaching Bite Inhibition Matters
Bite inhibition is a dog’s ability to control the pressure of their mouth. Teaching this early helps prevent accidental injury and supports safe interactions with people throughout a dog’s life.
Dogs who haven’t learned bite inhibition may unintentionally hurt someone during play, which can damage trust and make handling more stressful for everyone involved.
Dogs who haven’t learned bite inhibition may unintentionally hurt someone during play, which can damage trust and make handling more stressful for everyone involved.
What Not to Do
Punishment is not an effective or safe way to stop mouthing. Hitting, scolding, shouting, or pushing a dog away can increase excitement, confusion, or fear — and may actually make mouthing worse
Similarly, dramatic reactions such as yelping, pulling your hand away quickly, or saying “no” repeatedly can turn mouthing into a fun game for your dog. For many puppies, any attention — even negative attention — is rewarding.
Similarly, dramatic reactions such as yelping, pulling your hand away quickly, or saying “no” repeatedly can turn mouthing into a fun game for your dog. For many puppies, any attention — even negative attention — is rewarding.
How to Reduce Mouthing Safely
The most effective approach is to teach your dog what to do instead, while making mouthing people unrewarding.
Helpful strategies include:
Helpful strategies include:
- Keep a variety of appropriate chew and play toys available at all times
- Praise and reward your dog for mouthing toys instead of people
- Approach your dog with a toy in hand so they have an appropriate outlet
- If mouthing occurs, calmly and safely remove yourself from interaction
- Pause play briefly, then re-engage when your dog is calm
Supporting Positive Associations
Human hands should always predict good things. Hand-feeding meals or treats can help your dog associate hands with safety, trust, and positive experiences. This also supports future handling and reduces the risk of guarding behaviours developing later
When to Seek Professional Help
If mouthing is intense, persistent, or escalating — or if your dog is causing injury — working with a qualified, force-free trainer is strongly recommended. Professional guidance ensures the behaviour is addressed safely, without increasing fear or frustration.
With patience, consistency, and the right support, most dogs learn appropriate mouth behaviour successfully, allowing for safe, enjoyable interactions and a stronger bond with their family.
With patience, consistency, and the right support, most dogs learn appropriate mouth behaviour successfully, allowing for safe, enjoyable interactions and a stronger bond with their family.
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