How to Stop Your Toy Poodle Puppy from Nipping – 10 Gentle Tips from a Montreal Breeder

Is your toy poodle puppy going through a nipping phase? Don’t worry — it’s totally normal! Puppies use their mouths to explore the world, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with tiny teeth on your hands forever.

As a toy poodle breeder based in Montreal, I’ve helped many families guide their puppies through this stage — without stress or punishment. Here are 10 effective, positive-reinforcement strategies to gently stop your poodle from biting and teach better habits early on.

✅ 1. Understand Why Puppies Nip

Puppies bite during play, teething, or to get attention. Recognizing the why behind the behavior helps you respond calmly and correctly.

✅ 2. Redirect with a Toy

Always have a chew toy or rope nearby. When your puppy starts nipping, gently swap your hand for a toy. It teaches them what’s okay to bite.

✅ 3. Use Gentle “Ouch” Feedback

If your puppy bites too hard, say “ouch” in a high-pitched tone — just like another puppy would! It teaches them to control bite pressure (called bite inhibition).

✅ 4. Stop Play if Biting Continues

If the nipping escalates, calmly end the interaction. Walking away sends a clear message: no bite = no fun.

✅ 5. Avoid Harsh Punishment

Yelling, hitting, or holding their mouth shut doesn’t work — and it can scare or confuse your pup. Stick to calm, consistent redirection.

✅ 6. Don’t Encourage Biting During Play

Wrestling, hand-slapping games, or letting them tug on sleeves can accidentally teach biting is part of fun. Keep it chill.

✅ 7. Offer Frozen Treats for Teething Relief

Teething puppies are uncomfortable. Offer frozen carrots or puppy-safe chew toys to ease the pain and reduce frustration.

✅ 8. Socialize With Other Puppies

Supervised play with other dogs helps your poodle learn bite control and proper boundaries from their peers.

✅ 9. Be Consistent

Make sure everyone in the home reacts the same way to biting — same “ouch,” same toy redirection, same rules. Consistency is key.

✅ 10. Ask Your Breeder or Trainer for Support

A responsible breeder (like us at Maxanimo in Montreal!) will always be happy to offer advice and support as your puppy grows.

📍 Looking for a Well-Socialized Toy Poodle in Montreal?

At Maxanimo, we raise our toy poodle puppies with love, early training, and socialization — so they grow into happy, well-adjusted companions. Whether you’re preparing for your first puppy or just need help with a behavior like nipping, we’re here to guide you.

🐶 Want More Puppy Tips?

Follow us on Instagram or visit maxanimo.com for more advice, adorable updates, and available puppies in the Montreal area.