Biting in dogs: pain, emotion or natural need?

Biting is natural for dogs. This behavior, sometimes misunderstood by humans, has many possible causes. Understanding why a dog bites is essential to properly support them and avoid making the situation worse.

Biting related to growth and teeth

In puppies, biting is often linked to an important stage: teething . From 3 weeks to about 7 months, puppies lose their baby teeth and start to develop their permanent teeth. This period can cause pain and discomfort in the mouth. Biting is a natural reflex to relieve this discomfort.

An unmet need for food or chewing

Another, lesser-known factor is hunger . A puppy or even an adult dog that constantly nibbles could be trying to express a need for food. Ensuring that their diet is adequate, both in quantity and quality, is therefore important.

Furthermore, the need to chew is a fundamental need for dogs. Natural chewing (using suitable treats, natural chews, or specific toys) is essential to their well-being. A dog that lacks chewing may develop excessive chewing behaviors on objects... or on our hands!

The mouth: a communication tool

Let's never forget that dogs explore and communicate with their mouths . For both puppies and adult dogs, biting or nibbling is a way for them to discover their environment, interact with us, and convey emotions.

When a dog gently grabs our hands, he's not necessarily trying to "do something wrong." Often, he's trying to get our attention , express a need, or manage an emotion, such as excitement.

Important : Excitement is sometimes triggered by our own behavior (rapid gestures, high-pitched voice, poorly controlled play). The dog builds up emotional pressure... and uses his mouth to try to calm down or externalize his overflow.

Emotional nibbling

Stress, frustration, excitement, fear : all of these emotions can trigger nibbling. Some dogs use their mouths to better manage a situation they don't know how to control otherwise.

So a dog that nibbles may be saying:

• “I’m so excited!”

• “I’m frustrated!”

• “I want to get in touch with you!”

Understanding him is better to help him.

What if it's a health problem?

In some cases, pain (e.g., oral, joint, or digestive) can cause a dog to bite. Chronic pain or discomfort can increase nervousness and lead to excessive biting behaviors.

If your dog exhibits sudden, intense, or unusual biting, it is always wise to consult a veterinarian to rule out a medical cause.

In summary

Biting is not a “whim”: it is a normal behavior, often multifactorial.

• Puppy : teeth, need to explore, hunger, need for attention.

• Adult dog : managing emotions, need to chew, communication.

By understanding your dog better, you can offer him suitable solutions:

• Quality food

• Natural chewing activities

• Calm and respectful interactions

• A reassuring environment

Biting isn't a sign of meanness, it's a message. Let's listen to it.