DAY 6 - Why Do Puppies Chew on Hands While Playing? (Zoey Did Too!)

If you’ve ever played with a puppy, you’ve probably felt those sharp little teeth nibbling on your hands. It might seem cute at first, but soon, your hands look like you’ve been in a mini battle—covered in tiny bite marks!

When Zoey was a puppy, she loved chewing on our hands, fingers, even our sleeves. At first, we thought it was her way of showing affection, but over time, it became a habit. Why do puppies do this? And how do you stop it without ruining playtime? 

Let’s break it down!

Why Do Puppies Chew on Hands?

Just like human babies, puppies explore the world with their mouths. But beyond curiosity, here’s why they can’t resist nibbling on your hands:

🐾 Teething Pain Relief – Puppies start teething at 3-4 weeks old, and biting helps soothe sore gums.

🐾 Learning Bite Control – Puppies naturally learn bite strength through play. If they bite too hard, their littermates yelp, teaching them to be gentle.

🐾 Excitement & Playfulness – If your pup is overstimulated, they may bite as a way to express excitement.

🐾 Seeking Attention – If your puppy notices that chewing on your hands gets a reaction, they might do it more!

Zoey went through all these phases. The key? Teaching bite control early so it doesn’t become a habit.

How to Stop Your Puppy from Biting Hands (The Right Way!)

Stopping your puppy from biting doesn’t mean punishing them—it means teaching them what’s okay to chew on.

🛑 1. Stop Moving & Say "Ouch!"

When Zoey bit too hard, we made a high-pitched “Ouch!” sound and immediately stopped playing. This mimics how puppies react in a litter—if play stops, they learn that biting too hard isn’t fun.

✔ Use a firm, but calm voice.

✔ Don’t jerk your hand away—it might make them chase and bite harder!

🦴 2. Redirect to a Chew Toy

Puppies need to chew, so give them something better than your hands!

✔ Keep a soft chew toy nearby during play.

✔ When they bite, replace your hand with the toy.

✔ Praise them when they bite the toy instead!

Zoey loved Himalayan Yak Chews and rubber teething toys—they saved our hands from becoming her personal chew sticks.

❌ 3. Don’t Encourage the Habit

It’s easy to let a puppy nibble on your fingers when they’re small and cute. But if you laugh or keep playing, they think it’s okay!

✔ If your puppy bites, stop play immediately.

✔ Stay consistent—everyone in the house should follow the same rule.

✔ Never use your hand as a toy—this confuses them!

🏃 4. Avoid Overstimulation

Puppies get hyper fast! If biting increases, it may be time for:

🐶 A nap – Puppies bite more when they’re overtired.

🐾 A break – Overexcitement can lead to rough play.

🦴 A chew session – Offer a chew bone to help them relax.

Zoey was extra bitey when she was tired, so we learned to slow things down before play got too wild.

How to Heal Puppy Bite Marks Quickly

Even with training, accidents happen! If your puppy’s sharp teeth have left little red marks or scratches, here’s what to do:

✔ Wash the area with mild soap and water – Keeps it clean and prevents infection.

✔ Apply Sweet Almond Oil – It’s natural, soothes the skin, reduces redness, and speeds up healing.

🐾 Pro Tip: Almond oil is also great for puppy paws and dry noses—so Zoey gets a little spa treatment too!

Final Woof: Biting Is Temporary, Training Lasts Forever!

Puppy biting is a normal phase, but with consistent training, patience, and redirection, your pup will learn gentle play habits.

✅ Say "Ouch!" and stop play

✅ Redirect to a chew toy

✅ Avoid overstimulating play

✅ Use almond oil for healing

Zoey eventually learned to play without using her teeth—and your puppy will too! 🐶💛

📢 Does your puppy bite your hands too? What helped you stop the habit? 

Let us know in the comments! 🐾