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How to Get a Puppy to Stop Biting

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There is so much to love about puppies. They’re adorable, snuggly, loving and playful. But puppies also come with some destructive behaviors — accidents inside the house, chewing on things they aren’t supposed to, and perhaps worst of all, biting.

Biting, or “mouthing,” is part of how a puppy learns about the world. It’s often meant to be a playful behavior, but those sharp little teeth can hurt! Here are a few tips on how to stop puppy biting in Springfield, even in a playful way.

Looking for more comprehensive puppy training? Check out our Puppy Essentials Webinar or schedule a free in-home assessment with one of our professional trainers.

Dog Training Elite Springfield offers a professional puppy training program near you in Springfield to teach how to get a puppy to stop biting.

Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Springfield location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


E-Collar Tune Up

$1,545

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
  • E-Collar Tune up

Gold

$2,145

Equipment Included: 20' Nylon Leash and E-Collar

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 5 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 6 Months
  • Come
  • Loose Leash Walking
  • Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Off(furniture when desired)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Down(lay next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Build Confidence
  • Manners, Safety & Boundaries
  • STOP Jumping on People

Platinum

$3,545

Our platinum package offers you training sessions throughout your dog's lifetime! Follow-up sessions to be scheduled once per month as needed, after initial program is completed.

Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.

This package is a pre-requisite to any Therapy or Service Training Packages.

Equipment Included: 20' Nylon Leash, Place Cot, and E-Collar

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 8 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions Unlimited *see above description
  • Come
  • Loose Leash Walking
  • Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Off(furniture when desired)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Place(go to bed)
  • Heel(walk with you, no more pulling)
  • Down(lay next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Load Up (go into kennel, car, or dog house)
  • Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
  • Manners, Safety & Boundaries
  • STOP Jumping on People
  • STOP Biting & Nipping
  • STOP Bolting Through Doors, Running Away & Chasing Animals
  • STOP Begging & Stealing Food
  • STOP Chewing & Digging
  • STOP Excessive Barking
  • *STOP Aggression(dog & human)
  • *Stay With You on a Jog, Hike, or Bike Ride
  • *Emotional Support Dog Training(ESA)
  • *Other Custom Command Approved by Trainer
Best In-Home Dog Trainers Near Me in Springfield
Highest Rated Dog Obedience Trainers Near You in Springfield
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In-Home Dog Trainers Near You in Springfield

Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


  • Empowering Owners
    We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
  • Personalized
    We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
  • Environment Specific
    We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
  • Supportive
    We support Owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
  • Involved
    We work with all members of the household.
  • Simplified & Customized
    We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
  • Continued Training
    Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
  • Lifetime Investment
    We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
  • Satisfaction Ratings
    Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.

We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!

As a family, we didn't realize how much our little Maltese pups could accomplish in such a short time. Dog Training Elite provided expert guidance on how to use simple tools and proven techniques to ensure a healthy environment for our dogs to succeed. The training was fun and engaging making it something to look forward to every week. Once the initial training was complete not only did we acquire more confidence in our handling skills, but also gained a relationship with the trainers that would last a lifetime. Thank you for everything!
— danielchristman01
Posted March 16th 2024
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Banjo (and I) started training with Nerissa about 5 weeks ago (he was 6 mos old) I was having major dog owners remorse UNTIL we met Nerissa! Banjo is a delight to be around now, he responds to my commands, no jumping, no biting, no running into me! I love how well behaved he has become Nerissa’s excitement about training (the owner) is contagious and it makes me want to train banjo to be the best he can! He really wants to learn now and the consistency with this training is great for both of us. Banjo will continue his training to become a support dog and scent dog. Thanks Nerissa and Dog Training Elite
— Patti Thornton
Posted March 14th 2024
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I knew I wanted to train Dolly as a service dog to help my husband with some of the long term side effects from his cancer treatments. I also knew training a miniature daschund would be a BIG challenge. (Daschunds are know for their stubbornness and independent thinking.) I met with Kristi at DTE and we discussed our family's needs and what it would take to accomplish my goal of training Dolly to be a excellent helpmate to my husband. We got to work right away and the results continue to be AMAZING! From the first session Dolly went from being a cute, but out of control diva, to following commands quickly and calmly. Kristi and Nerissa have been wonderful in how they train both Dolly and I. Their positive approach, endless knowledge, structured and effective programming and continual support clearly demonstrates they love what they do and are excellent trainers. I HIGHLY recommend Dog Training Elite for anyone who is serious about their dog and wants effective, long term results.
— Amy Walker
Posted March 9th 2024
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I was hesitant. My boxer is just 10 months old with zero respect for boundaries. I have had a boxer before, so I thought this is how Lovey would be for her first few years. I found DTE on line and made an appt for the free consultation. I originally planned to do the weekly classes, but after further consideration, I decided to go for it - and I am beyond THRILLED! Lovey is in the 2 week day camp classes - life is too short to wait - and I want to enjoy her to the fullest NOW! After just TWO DAYS, I struggle to find words to describe the difference in her! She comes to me on my 1st request. She sits, again, first request. She doesn't instantly jump up on everyone. My hope is brand new! I love this program and Kristi and Nerissa are THE BEST!!!! I look forward to updating my review when she graduates 🙂
— Lisa
Posted March 8th 2024
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Kristi is awesome. Wonderful experience. We have 2 dogs that required 2 sessions and Kristi was a Jedi at understanding our dogs. What a great experience and life is so much better after the training. From walking, to bark discipline to distractions, our home and yard are much more enjoyable now.
— ryan macdonald
Posted February 29th 2024
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We have a 11 month old Aussie/Great Pyrenees mix and she is hyper with a very short attention span. Once she is focused on something it's tough to get her attention. She would jump on people begging for attention. Barking at other dogs sometimes causing aggressive behavior from other dogs. Constantly pulling on the leash, at times almost causing my wife to fall. She would chase our cats creating havoc in our home. We started training her at 4 months with 2 other trainers whos training methods did not help her to stay focused on us or our commands and did not help to correct her behavior. We were about to give up, until we found Kristi at Dog Traing Elite. The very first day with the very first lesson Kristi put both us and our dog in the proper frame of mind in understanding this very unique and effective method. In one short hour we had our dog's attention and crystal clear communication that she understood keeping her focus on us and what we wanted her to do. That night we actually had peace in our home for the first time in 10 months! Using just what we learned from that first lesson made such incredible difference in the dynamics in our home and with our neighbors! Each lesson is bringing us closer in our relationship with our dog with an amazing bond of trust between us. The cats are no longer afraid to walk by her knowing she will not pounce on them trying to play! We love our dog and just how intelligent and sweet she realy is, utilizing the right crystal clear communications we've learned. We appreciate Kristi so very much for sharing her method, experience and skills in helping us to truly have shalom/peace not just in our home, but where ever we take this amazing, loving, and incredibly intellegent, dog of ours. If your struggling with training your hyper-active, uncontrollable dog, look no further and don't waste your time, money, or your dogs well-being with other methods, give Kristi or any of her amazing fellow trainers a call at Dog Training Elite. You'll be forever grateful you did and so will your dog! ; )
— Stephanie Neckermann
Posted February 23rd 2024
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Bandi our almost 3 year old corgi started training in Nov. of 2023. She needed better social & behavior skills such as not barking non stop. Bandi's behaviors & obedience have been a complete 360 change. Friends & relatives ask what we have done to her. Our trainer, Nerissa, has been a joy to work with. She has been patient, professional & a joy working with Bandi & us during training. We recommend DTE 1000%. Thanks, Paul, Shari & Bandi Cape Fair Mo.
— Paul Winfrey, Sr.
Posted February 2nd 2024
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We cant thank Kristi and Nerissa enough for helping us with our training, we had a baby coming in 6 weeks when we initially reached out to them and they were so accommodating to get us in and help us get our dog prepared for the arrival of our little one. He's a completely different dog. You ladies are amazing and we will be forever grateful for the training we've received!
— Katherine Pike
Posted January 27th 2024
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Nerissa has trained our Vizsla Puppy, Ruby to do what we thought would be impossible. We are able to take Ruby into dog friendly retail establishments and Ruby will not lunge at customers or damage merchandise, Ruby walks calmly through a hotel lobby and is not afraid to ride in an elevator. That being said, Ruby is not perfect, and is still a work in progress, but with the help of group training classes, we feel Ruby will continue to make progress towards being a well behaved pet with whom we feel confident traveling with. Nerissa answered our numerous questions patiently and was extremely helpful with her advise.
— s clingan
Posted January 8th 2024
google
Dog Training Elite has brought peace to our home. We have a miniature Aussie who was reactive every time someone came to our door or every time we went out in public. She is so much more obedient now. We are also training a standard poodle to be a service dog for our son. Kristi and her team are SO good with the dogs and I feel that they can get us to where we need to be!
— Hornbuckle Capital
Posted January 6th 2024
google
My husband and I welcomed Finn (English Cream Golden) into our family last July and quickly realized that he was unlike any dog we had previously had. We have trained our previous dogs fairly easily but Finn was a bully and very contrary. Within 6 months I was ready to find him a home but was convinced he would become more manageable after the 14 month wait for neuter. I was wrong, after the neuter he was still wild, didn't listen and ate EVERYTHING! After being kicked out of two doggie day care centers in town, I was trying to contact a training center for a last ditch effort to keep him. That was how I got in touch with Kristie at dog training elite. I liked her immediately! She told me that she could provide an experience where I would love my dog. Honestly, I didn't see how but she was so genuine and positive that I would see a difference within our first training session that I had to try. We purchased the Platinum Plan, because between what we paid for Finn, and time invested it didn't make sense not to. I wanted Kristie to be there to demonstrate, show Finn, and then observe our training w Finn for hands on corrections. And ya know what.....I adore my dog. We are in week 5 training session....I can take a bath without him licking me, I can place him in the living room while I am cooking, I can have him come inside in a gentlemanly manner and he bullies no one. Gone are the days of shouting (embarrassing but true), frustration and disappointment on finding the 5th pair of glasses demolished. Kristie changed our lives and now I look forward to Finn time! Thank you!!! We are both much happier!! Money well spent, and if we ever do puppies again, we will start with this program. My family is very appreciative! Sincerely, Amy Williams
— Amy Williams
Posted January 5th 2024
google
My little 8 lb. dog loves taking walks, but her behavior was so bad I dreaded taking her. She would tug on the leash and lunge at all dogs and has a bark so loud and shrill she sounds like a smoke detector. Thanks to Kristi, after ONE lesson, we now take walks with a loose leash and Phoebe doesn't bark or even acknowledge other dogs! Kristi's dog-training skills are phenomenal, but combined with her passion to make every client a success story sets her apart from all other trainers. Kristi brings such enthusiasm and joy to each lesson that Phoebe and I can't wait to learn. Thank-you, Kristi, for making a well-mannered Phoebe even more lovable!!
— Mary
Posted December 27th 2023
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Snow is a rescued, 11 yr old “velcro”terrier who is smart but stubborn. Kristi Anderson has proven that she can teach this old dog new tricks. I’m now looking forward to walking with Snow in high traffic places and having a calmer dog. Thank you, Kristi.
— Emmie Seaman
Posted December 6th 2023
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WE LOVE KRISTI AND DOG TRAINING ELITE!!! What we thought we adopted: a 30lb Miniature Pinscher mix What we actually got: a 70lb bear hunter (Plott Hound)/military dog (Dutch Shepard) mix Short Description: We have 70lbs of pure muscle that felt zero pain and ran through life following whatever impulse she had no matter the dangers or repercussions. Now we have the best dog that brings joy to our lives every day without all of the destruction brought initially. She’s a whole new dog that kept all of her best qualities! Long Description: For a year we struggled with her eating our furniture and walls, wildly moving through life and so much more! She did not respond to any of our current training techniques we used with our previous dogs and we didn’t know what to do. Tiana was running through life with no control and was even getting injured from it. It had gotten to the point where I wasn’t even sure I wanted her to be in our home. It broke my heart and I felt like a failure of a dog mom!! Then we made the best choice and had Kristi come out to see what life in our home had become. Kristi was understanding and compassionate as we sat at my dining room table while I cried about fearing that I’ll never be bonded to Tiana and how awful that would be for us both. Kristi showed us how to encourage Tiana to make better choices and focus on what we want/need her to do. Tiana is still her silly happy self but is so much safer! She isn’t eating tons of inedible objects anymore! She isn’t annoying her brother dogs to a point where they feel they have to attack her! She understands her place in our family and is now adding even more joy than we thought she would! She’s in control, calm and so much safer than she was before! She still has her adorable goofiness with just enough sass to keep life interesting. We are so thankful to Kristi and proud of Tiana!
— Erin
Posted December 5th 2023
google
I had an unruly Yorkie. I actually had contemplated getting rid of him. My last ditch effort was to hire a trainer. I happened on Dog Training Elite and decided to give this one more try. I’m about halfway through the weekly sessions. What a difference they have made with my little guy! They take their time and have helped me to understand what I need to do as well to get the right response from my dog. I firmly believe you get out of the pet what you are willing to put into it and the dog really does want to please. This company is giving me the tools I need to make a wonderful pet. I highly recommend the investment in your fur baby’s future with this company.
— Connie Nichols
Posted November 27th 2023
google
Hank - our 6 month old Wire Fox Terrier drove his 11 year old sister crazy. After our first lesson (Off and Quiet), she was quickly able to tolerate him. Like even the same night!!! We are three lessons in and our lives and household is so much better. Hank will Sit and won't move even though his favorite toy is jumping around in front of him. We are so proud of him!!! We are glad that we made the investment to start training. Kristi has a real skill working with the puppies/dogs. You can't go wrong with Elite Dog Training.
— Stacey Frye
Posted November 6th 2023
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Kristi is amazing. She explains every step as she trains and is so supportive. She truly wants you and your dogs to be successful. I was amazed at how fast my little dogs responded to and are learning good behavior. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite with Kristi.!!
— Cheryl Schuetze
Posted September 30th 2023
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My frenchie is already a new dog after 1 week of training. Learning how to be consistent and calm and how to implement the e collar is so helpful,
— Kara Messner
Posted September 20th 2023
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I have been seeing Dog Training Elite at different farmer's markets over the past couple of years. Upon getting a year old Labradoodle in June 2023 - and seeing how intelligent but yet rowdy he was. I booked a free consultation with Narissa. Within a month, Charlie, our Labradoodle was a completely different dog. The behavioral issues that seemed like a possible dealbreakers were GONE. The basic commands that were taught cut out the annoying and troublesome behaviors of most dogs. We are training Charlie in hopes of him becoming a ACA therapy dog. As a therapist, a dog has to listen first time and know appropriate boundaries. With the training provided by Dog Training Elite he will be able to become certificated with few issues. Typically a very strenuous process. Another thing I would like to say about Dog Training Elite is the practicality of their training. The consistency that it brings for the dog, the main family member training, AND the family is worth its wait in GOLD. Our children know that they can only use certain commands with Charlie and it gives them control and confidence for example: when the four-year-old feels overwhelmed by the dog's excitement. She simply says "sit"… He sits exactly where he is. She goes about her business and then, she simply says "break," giving the dog permission to come out of sit. We chose to make the investment in our Charlie. Dog's aim to please and love their owners by observable and rewardable obedience. One thing I have learned over training, is I was very inconsistent with the way I communicated with Charlie causing him confusion and Me frustration. With the basic commends and simple remote clicks everyone benefits! I hope this helps with your decision if you are on the fence to hiring Dog Training Elite!
— Alexandria Grady
Posted September 18th 2023
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Elite Dog Training is AMAZING! When I got my Bernese mountain dog pup, I knew right away I was going to need help with obedience and training since I was going to have a big dog on my hands. I ran into Elite Dog Training at the farmers market at Farmers Park and that is where I met Kristi and got to learn what the training was all about. I knew Kristi was fully confident in her teaching abilities which made me so eager to have my pup train with her. My pup started training at 8 weeks old and he is now 5 1/2 months and I cannot believe how well he has done with training. Kristi has been so patient of my pup and I; she is encouraging and always brings her best energy. I used to be very sensitive to the idea of training with a “shock collar” but I have realized that it is meant to be used as a tool and not something harmful to your dog. As Kristi always says, “obedience is freedom” and with the few months of training, I can 100% say that is true. I am able to take my 5 1/2 month old pup out in public without it being absolute chaos because I use the training techniques and tool that Kristi has helped us learn and perfect along that way. Also, we have started jointing group class which is an absolute blast! It is amazing to see how well all the dogs behave and how the trainers, Nerissa and Kristi, handle the training and communication with each individual and their pup. Cannot wait to watch my pup grow and us be able to go out on our adventures without any obedience struggle with the help from Elite Dog Training. Would HIGHLY recommend to anyone who is considering training for their pup/dog!!
— Josie Sanders
Posted September 5th 2023
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Dog Training Elite Springfield offers expert services - like how to stop puppy biting.

How to Get a Puppy to Stop Biting? Teach them that Biting Hurts

Getting a puppy to quit mouthing is actually very simple. You just have to teach your puppy that biting hurts.

How do you teach this? By helping your puppy learn “bite inhibition.” Bite inhibition is a puppy or a dog’s ability to control how hard they bite. Typically puppies learn bite inhibition from playing with other puppies. Biting or mouthing is a common play tactic between puppies and dogs, but occasionally a puppy will bite too hard. This causes their playmate to yelp with pain and stop playing.

The reaction of the bitten puppy helps the puppy who did the biting realize their mistake and learn not to bite so hard. Just like puppies learn how to be gentle with each other, they can learn the same lesson from humans. Even if your puppy has learned bite inhibition while playing with other puppies or dogs, they still need to be taught how sensitive human skin is.

Follow the example of your puppy’s playmates. Let your puppy mouth your hands during play. When they bite you too hard, yelp like a puppy and let your hand go limp to indicate that you have been hurt. This should stop your puppy from continuing to bite you or continuing to play. When they stop, or if they attempt to make you feel better by licking your hand, praise your puppy and resume play. You can also try “time-outs” for your puppy, where you stop playing for 20 seconds after being bitten.

The goal is to teach your puppy that if they bite, playing stops. If they are gentle, play continues. Make sure to reward your puppy with praise and possibly treats when they do a good job. At Dog Training Elite, we know positive reinforcement is the best and most effective way to train puppies and dogs.

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Take it to the Next Level

Once your puppy understands that they shouldn’t bite human skin hard, start working on teaching them not to bite human skin at all. Use the same techniques of yelping and stopping play. Over time, gradually reduce the amount of biting you allow until your puppy eventually learns not to bite at all.

Some other techniques for to stop mouthing include the distraction method. If your puppy tends to want to bite you when you pet him, distract him with treats so he’ll get used to being touched without mouthing your hands or arms. Keep your puppy’s favorite toy with you, and if she starts mouthing your hands, give her the toy to bite instead.

What to Avoid

There are some behaviors we humans tend to engage in when we want to play with puppies that actually encourage them to bite. If you’re at a loss for how to stop a puppy from biting, make sure to avoid these habits:

  • Avoid wiggling your fingers or toes in your puppy’s face to entice them to play. This encourages your puppy to bite your hands and feet.
  • Don’t jerk your hands away from your puppy if they bite you. They might lunge forward to grab you with their mouth.
  • Never slap or hit a puppy for biting. This ineffective and cruel and can backfire as a training method. Your puppy might start to play more aggressively, with more biting, or they can become afraid of you.

At Dog Training Elite, we never use physical punishment to train puppies and dogs. We focus on rewarding desired behaviors. This method of training helps build a strong, loving bond between puppies and their owners.

Dog Training Elite Springfield has an award winning program in Springfield, including how to get a puppy to stop biting.

Start Puppy Training Now

Teaching your pup not to bite is a huge accomplishment. But puppies have so much more to learn, and even the thought of having to train a puppy can be overwhelming. If you’re struggling with your puppy’s destructive behavior or looking for help with general training, call Dog Training Elite. We have a tried and true training method that really works for dogs of any age, including puppies. Dog Training Elite offers both individual in–home training and obedience classes for puppies.

In–home training is the perfect way to help you and your puppy bond while working with one of our professional trainers. Our trainers will adapt training to your environment and needs and empower you to continue training on your own. Obedience classes are also a great way to help your puppy learn by exposing them to other dogs and people and new sights and sounds. Combining in–home training with obedience classes ensures a well–behaved puppy who learns quickly.

What are you waiting for? Contact Dog Training Elite today for a free in–home assessment or schedule a free training demo to see what your puppy can become.

Dog Training Elite Springfield can teach you how to stop puppy biting.