Lesson 2 for Tiko

Bark

Bark

Strategies to Reduce Tiko’s Biting

🎉 Hey Sharin, welcome to Lesson 2! You’re doing an amazing job with Tiko, and now we’ll focus on reducing his biting behavior while also helping him feel more secure when left alone.

Need a refresher on Tiko’s barking triggers?

How to Teach Tiko Gentle Play & Independence

These exercises will help Tiko learn bite control, manage his excitement, and build confidence when spending time alone.

Step 1: Redirecting Biting to Appropriate Chew Items

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and teething makes biting even more tempting. Teaching Tiko what’s okay to chew (and what’s not!) will set clear boundaries.

📅 Practice: Throughout the day | Every time Tiko starts biting

🕒 Best times: Playtime, when excited, or when showing teething discomfort

Step-by-Step Training Guide:

  1. Keep teething-friendly chew toys handy – Have soft rubber gentle for puppy’s teeth toy ready.

  2. If Tiko bites your hands or clothes, calmly replace them with a chew toy. Encourage him to chew on that instead.

  3. Reward the right choice! If he switches to the toy, praise him enthusiastically: “Good boy, Tiko!” and offer a treat.

🐾 Paw Tip: Consistency is key—always redirect biting to a toy instead of your hands!

🌟 Get the most from exercises

Just like us, dogs have food preferences! Discover which protein motivates your furkid the most.

Step 2: Teaching “Gentle Mouth” to Reduce Hard Biting

Puppies need to learn how much pressure is too much. This step helps Tiko develop bite inhibition (knowing how to be gentle).

📅 Practice: Daily during playtime

🕒 Best times: When Tiko gets mouthy or excited

Step-by-Step Training Guide:

  1. Play as usual. If Tiko bites too hard, say “Ouch!” in a calm but high-pitched tone.

  2. Immediately stop play – Withdraw attention for 5-10 seconds.

  3. Resume play once he calms down. If he bites softly or licks instead, reward him with praise or a treat.

  4. Repeat as needed – Tiko will learn that gentle play keeps the fun going, while rough biting ends it.

🐾 Paw Tip: Avoid rough play with hands — this can encourage biting instead of reducing it!

Step 3: Helping Tiko Feel Safe & Confident When Alone

Separation barking happens when Tiko feels anxious about being left alone. Teaching him to settle and self-soothe will make alone time easier.

📅 Practice: 3-4 times per week | 5-10 min per session

🕒 Best times: Before leaving home or during quiet time

Step-by-Step Training Guide:

  1. Start with short separations. Place Tiko in a comfy space with a long-lasting Kongo toy for puppy and step out of sight for a few seconds.

  2. Return before he gets anxious. If he stays calm, praise and reward him. Gradually increase the time apart.

  3. Use background noise. Play soft music or leave a scent item (like a worn t-shirt) to comfort him.

  4. Reward quiet, calm behavior. If Tiko barks when left alone, wait for a quiet moment before returning. Avoid rushing in when he’s barking.

🐾 Paw Tip: Create positive alone-time experiences by giving him a puzzle toy or stuffed Kong before leaving!

🐶 How’s training going?

We’d love to hear from you! Share your progress, ask questions, or get personalized feedback on the exercises — we’re here to help with all things barking!

What’s Next?

In Lesson 3, we’ll tackle how to help Tiko stay calm with any biting triggers. And remember, you’re doing an amazing job — keep it up! 🎉