Dog Pressure Points to Stop Biting: Where to Pinch and Calm Your Dog

If you're a dog owner, you may have experienced the frustration and pain of a biting dog. While biting is a common behavior in dogs, it can be dangerous if not addressed promptly. Luckily, there are pressure points on a dog's body that can be used to stop biting and calm a dog down. In this article, we'll explore the dog pressure points to stop biting and answer some common questions about dog behavior.

Where do you pinch a dog to stop biting?

One of the most effective pressure points to stop biting is the scruff of the neck. This is the loose skin on the back of a dog's neck that a mother dog uses to carry her puppies. To use this pressure point, grasp the scruff of the neck with your hand and apply gentle pressure. This will not harm your dog, but it will help to calm them down and stop them from biting.

Another pressure point to stop biting is the bridge of the nose. To use this pressure point, place your thumb and index finger on either side of your dog's nose and apply gentle pressure. This can help to distract your dog from biting and redirect their attention.

What is the calm pressure point for dogs?

The calm pressure point for dogs is located on the top of the dog's head, between the ears. To use this pressure point, place your hand on the top of your dog's head and apply gentle pressure. This can help to calm your dog down and reduce anxiety. It's important to note that not all dogs respond to this pressure point in the same way, so it's important to observe your dog's behavior and adjust your approach accordingly.

How do you stop your dog from biting you?

There are several methods for stopping a dog from biting, including using pressure points, positive reinforcement training, and seeking professional help.

Using pressure points is a safe and effective method for stopping biting in dogs. In addition to the pressure points mentioned earlier, you can also use the ears, paws, and muzzle as pressure points. To use the ears, gently pinch the ear flap between your thumb and index finger. To use the paws, apply pressure to the pads of the paws. To use the muzzle, place your hand over your dog's muzzle and apply gentle pressure.

Positive reinforcement training is another effective method for stopping biting in dogs. This involves rewarding good behavior and ignoring bad behavior. For example, if your dog is biting, you can redirect their attention with a toy or treat. When your dog stops biting and plays with the toy or eats the treat, you can praise and reward them. Over time, your dog will learn that good behavior is rewarded and bad behavior is ignored.

If your dog's biting behavior is severe or persistent, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A certified dog trainer or behaviorist can assess your dog's behavior and provide customized training and behavior modification plans to address the biting.

Should I pin my dog down to show dominance?

Pinning a dog down to show dominance is not an effective or humane method for training dogs. This method can actually increase fear and aggression in dogs and can lead to a breakdown in the human-dog relationship. Instead, it's important to establish yourself as the pack leader through positive reinforcement training and clear communication. This involves setting boundaries, rewarding good behavior, and providing consistent leadership.

Tap Pressure Point Technique...

When your young dog begins to try and play-bite while you are patting them or playing with them, stop the activity, and make your dog sit and then get their interest by holding their head or lower jaw with one hand. Use one finger to gently tap your puppy's snout, it is vitally important that you only lightly tap and don't add any force as your dog's snout is extremely sensitive, and a light tap is enough for them to feel.

You shouldn't try to hurt your dog; this is merely a light tap to get their attention and to understand that the activity of biting is not allowed. I would suggest a one-finger tap for little dogs and puppies and a two-finger tap for larger dogs. Just as you start the tap method, add a command like "No", "No biting" or "Stop that". Talk the command in a low and serious voice and never yell at your dog. Yelling is absolutely unnecessary.

You are only informing your dog that biting is not OK and they'll respond well if you consistently do this over 1 or 2 days every time they try and play-bite.

Tongue Suppression Pressure Point Technique...

This technique is a bit messier because you'll need to physically touch your dog's tongue. You also must have the total trust of your dog before trying this.

When your dog is play biting, you place your thumb or index finger on your dog's tongue and press gently down and back. This creates a reaction of the tongue, and it will roll back in your dog's throat and will partly block your dog's airway. It does not hurt your dog, it's just a little uncomfortable and your dog will quickly learn that biting means an uncomfortable feeling. As with the tapping method, add a command to let your dog know you mean business.

If your dog gags or coughs immediately after, you have pushed its tongue back too far and you will need to minimize the amount of pressure you place on its tongue next time. A little push is all that is required, and it should last no more than a second. Use these strategies during play when your dog is play biting it'll in turn teach your pup that any biting is not appropriate and isn't tolerated.

In summary...

Dog biting can be a frustrating and dangerous behavior, but there are pressure points on a dog's body that can be used to stop biting and calm a dog down. The scruff of the neck and the bridge of the nose are two effective pressure points for stopping biting, while the calm pressure point for dogs is located on the top of the head, between the ears. These pressure points are safe to use and can help to prevent injury to both you and your dog.

However, it's important to remember that pressure points are just one tool in stopping biting in dogs. Positive reinforcement training and seeking professional help may also be necessary in some cases. When using pressure points, be gentle and observe your dog's response to ensure that you're not causing them any discomfort or pain.

It's also important to understand that biting behavior in dogs can have various causes, such as fear, anxiety, pain, or aggression. If your dog's biting behavior is severe or persistent, it's recommended to consult with a veterinarian or certified dog trainer, or behaviorist to rule out any underlying medical or behavioral issues.

Lastly, it's important to establish yourself as a pack leader through positive reinforcement training and clear communication with your dog. This involves setting boundaries, rewarding good behavior, and providing consistent leadership. Avoid using force or intimidation, such as pinning your dog down, as this can lead to fear and aggression and damage the human-dog relationship.

Learning how to stop your dog from biting is an essential part of responsible dog ownership. By using pressure points, positive reinforcement training, and seeking professional help when needed, you can help your dog to become a well-behaved and happy companion.