Puppies are adorable, but they can also be confusing. One moment they’re cuddly, the next they’re biting your fingers, crying in their crate, or sprinting around the house like a whirlwind. These behaviors may seem chaotic, but they’re all part of normal puppy development.
In this guide, we’ll break down three of the most common puppy behaviors—biting, crying, and zoomies—so you can understand what’s normal, what needs attention, and how to respond in a positive, effective way.
Puppy Biting: Why It Happens
Biting is a completely natural behavior for puppies, especially during the teething phase (usually between 8 weeks and 6 months). Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and biting is how they play, learn boundaries, and relieve discomfort.
Common reasons puppies bite:
- Teething pain
- Playful energy
- Lack of bite inhibition training
- Overstimulation or frustration
How to manage puppy biting:
- Offer chew toys as alternatives
- Redirect biting from hands or clothes to toys
- Use a calm, firm “no” or yelp to signal pain
- End playtime if biting becomes excessive
- Avoid punishment—focus on redirection and consistency
With regular guidance, puppies learn to control their bite strength and understand what’s acceptable.
Crying and Whining: Understanding Puppy Vocalization
Crying is another common puppy behavior, especially during the first few weeks in a new home. It’s their way of communicating discomfort, fear, boredom, or the need for attention.
When puppies commonly cry:
- During crate training or at night
- When left alone (separation anxiety)
- When they’re hungry, tired, or need to go out
- If they’re sick or uncomfortable
How to respond:
- Stick to a consistent schedule for meals, potty breaks, and naps
- Use crate training positively—never as punishment
- Comfort your puppy without reinforcing the crying (reward calm behavior)
- Provide a safe toy or blanket with a familiar scent
- Consult a vet if crying is excessive or sudden
Most puppies adjust within a few weeks, especially with a calm, predictable routine.
The Zoomies: What They Are and Why They Happen
Also known as “FRAPs” (Frenetic Random Activity Periods), the zoomies are sudden bursts of intense energy where your puppy runs wildly in circles, often with a joyful expression and full-body wiggling.
Zoomies are a healthy way for puppies to release built-up energy and excitement, especially:
- After a bath
- In the morning or evening
- After eating or playing
- After being cooped up too long
Should you worry about zoomies?
Not at all. They’re a normal part of development—as long as your puppy is safe and doesn’t hurt themselves or others.
What you can do:
- Give your puppy a safe space to zoom freely
- Make sure floors aren’t slippery
- Channel their energy into structured playtime or walks
- Avoid encouraging zoomies during high-risk situations (e.g., near stairs)
Conclusion
Biting, crying, and zoomies might seem overwhelming at first, but they’re all signs that your puppy is growing, learning, and adjusting to life. With patience, understanding, and consistent guidance, these behaviors will naturally improve as your puppy matures.
Need more help navigating puppyhood? Explore our Puppy Behavior section for step-by-step advice, training tips, and expert answers to your most common questions.