How to Stop Cockapoo Puppy Biting: Why Cockapoo Puppies Bite & Proven Solutions

Posted on 1st January 2026

 

7 month old cockapoo girl licks a woman's finger, close-up

Is your Cockapoo puppy biting your hands, feet, or even your children? You’re not alone—“how to stop Cockapoo puppy biting” is one of the most searched questions for new Cockapoo owners. While biting is a normal part of Cockapoo puppy development, it can quickly become a problem if not managed early. In this guide, we’ll answer common questions like “why is my Cockapoo biting?”, “do Cockapoos bite more than other breeds?”, and share proven, science-based solutions to stop Cockapoo puppy biting fast. Whether your Cockapoo is nipping during play, teething, or showing signs of aggression, you’ll find practical tips to create a calm, bite-free home and raise a well-mannered Cockapoo.

Is Cockapoo Puppy Biting Normal?

Yes — puppy biting is a normal part of development.

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, just like babies use their hands. Mouthing, grabbing, and biting are how they learn.

That said, normal doesn’t mean something you have to allow.
The goal isn’t punishment — it’s teaching better choices as your puppy grows.

And whilst most puppy biting is normal, there are occasions when it is a sign of more serious issues. If in doubt, please consult your vet or a trainer.

Why Do Cockapoos Bite More Than Some Breeds?

Breed genetics

Cockapoos are a mix of two retrieving breeds. Retrievers were bred to carry objects gently in their mouths, which makes Cockapoos naturally more mouth-oriented.

This means they’re more likely to:

  • Grab moving things

  • Use their mouths during play

  • Mouth hands, clothes, and feet

This isn’t bad behaviour — it’s instinct.

Social attraction

Cockapoos are also highly people-focused. Human movement, voices, hands, and attention are extremely rewarding, which means biting is often an attempt to engage, not to harm.

Many Cockapoos bite because they want connection, not because they’re being naughty.

The Main Causes of Cockapoo Puppy Biting

1. Overtiredness (the most common cause)

Most puppy biting is caused by lack of sleep.

Puppies need around 16–18 hours of sleep per day. When they’re overtired, they lose the ability to regulate themselves.

Signs of an overtired puppy include:

  • Biting that worsens when you intervene

  • Frantic behaviour or zoomies

  • Grabbing at movement

  • No interest in toys or redirection

An overtired puppy cannot make good choices.

2. Teething

Teething increases chewing and biting. Puppies go from 28 to 42 teeth by around seven months of age.

You may notice:

  • Increased chewing

  • Targeting back teeth

  • Picking up stones or household items

  • Difficulty settling

The goal during teething is comfort and relief, not stopping chewing completely.

3. Frustration (not aggression)

Frustration biting is an emotional response that happens when a puppy is suddenly prevented from accessing something they want.

It can look intense but is usually short-lived. Punishment or physical restraint often makes it worse.

This behaviour is about emotion — not intent to harm.

Why Cockapoos Bite Feet, Clothes, and Hands

Biting feet and clothing is extremely common.

Moving feet and swishing clothes trigger a puppy’s natural chase instinct. This is play behaviour, not disobedience.

What helps:

  • Stop moving when biting starts

  • Stay calm and still

  • Avoid squealing or pushing away

  • Redirect to a toy once your puppy lets go

Consistency matters more than perfection.

How to Teach Bite Inhibition

Bite inhibition is learning how much pressure is acceptable.

Puppies learn this through everyday interactions:

  • Hard bites make interaction stop

  • Gentle mouths keep interaction going

When teeth touch skin:

  1. Freeze movement and stay calm

  2. Pause interaction briefly if needed

  3. Resume calmly when your puppy disengages

  4. Redirect to a toy or chew

Progress looks like softer, less frequent bites over time, not instant stopping.

Preventing Puppy Biting Before It Starts

Prevention makes everything easier.

Routine and rest

Predictable routines reduce overtiredness, overstimulation, and frustration. Rest is just as important as play.

Teaching relaxation

Calm behaviour must be taught. Over-exercising often increases biting rather than reducing it.

Reward calm moments such as lying down or settling nearby.

Enrichment

Mental stimulation helps puppies settle without over-arousal.

Helpful enrichment includes:

  • Scatter feeding

  • Sniffing games

  • Food puzzles

  • Safe chewing and licking activities

A tired brain bites less than an overstimulated body.

When Puppy Biting Is Not Normal

Most puppy biting improves with time and consistency.

Extra support may be needed if biting:

  • Is worsening over time

  • Regularly breaks skin

  • Happens when your puppy is calm or resting

  • Occurs alongside fear or distress

  • Persists despite good sleep and routine

This doesn’t mean your puppy is bad — it means they need support.

What to Do Next

Puppy biting is challenging, but it is temporary.

Small, consistent changes make a big difference — especially when you understand why the biting is happening.

If you’d like extra support, you can:

  • Download my free puppy biting flowchart and checklist

  • Explore guides on sleep and toilet training

  • Be kind to yourself and your puppy while you practise — you’re already doing the right thing.