11 Reasons – Why Does My Dog Bite My Nose?

Pets can be a great source of companionship and fun, and none more so than our beloved pooches! Dogs bring a spark of life to any home, always eager to play and enjoy the outdoors. They are our best friends who will love you unconditionally, no matter what type of mood you’re in. 

But, being a pet owner means understanding that your good dog can do some pretty weird things from time to time. While it’s typical for dogs to act in strange ways now and then, sometimes it can be cause for concern.

Dog owners need to know when their pet’s behavior indicates an underlying health or emotional issue that needs attention or even medical intervention.

So, what about a dog that bites its owner’s nose? Why does my dog bite my nose? The quick and easy answer is your dog bites your nose because she’s learning, saying ‘I love you’ or ‘hi’, she’s excited or playing, she’s grooming you, just being a puppy, trying to tell you something, tasting your yummy nose, she wants your attention, or you trained her to.

Why Do Dogs Bite Your Nose?

Okay, so that was quite a few different reasons. Hopefully, you read through that list and had an ‘aha’ moment.

If not, don’t worry, I’ll go through each reason in more detail and then help you plan a way to get your dog to quit biting your nose too!

Learning About You and Your Day

Your dog could be biting your nose as a way to learn more about you. If this is the case, she’s probably using her sense of smell and taste to figure out where you’ve been, what you’ve been doing, and who you’ve been with.

It’s a way for her to explore her environment and understand what’s going on around her.

Telling You ‘I Love You’

Another likely explanation is that your dog is trying to tell you she loves you. Dogs like to show their love by licking and biting. And your nose may be the perfect target!

Don’t be surprised if your dog is nibbling and biting your nose as a way of saying ‘I love you’.

Excitement

Dogs can get very excited about things, and this can lead to some strange behavior. If your dog is especially excited, she may be biting your nose as a way of expressing her excitement.

This can happen even if your dog knows better.

If you’ve read anything I’ve had to say about my dog Duke then you know I have many stories about how well-trained he is and the craziness that can ensue when he’s excited.

Playing

Another highly likely explanation is that your dog is trying to get you to play with her. Dogs love to play, and they’ll often do whatever it takes to get their favorite person (YOU!) to join in on the fun!

Cleaning You Up

Your dog may also be licking or biting your nose as a way of grooming you. Dogs don’t just groom each other to help their pals stay clean but also as a way of expressing affection.

It’s no different with you, not only is your good girl cleaning you up, but she’s also giving you affection.

Saying ‘Hi’

It might sound strange, but it’s definitely possible that your pup is offering a ‘hello’ bite. It’s her way of greeting you when you (FINALLY!) come home.

Being A Puppy

If your dog is a puppy, it could just be her exploring her world. Puppies are curious, and they often use their mouth and nose to explore things.

Teething pains can also lead a puppy to chew and bite many things they otherwise wouldn’t.

Your Nose Tastes Good

The (gross) truth is that your nose might taste good to your pup. It’s not necessarily the nose itself that’s appealing to dogs though. Instead, the various things that can be found on your nose might be what your good girl is after.

Sunscreen, sweat, makeup, and other things that we wouldn’t think of as tasting good might be yummy to your dog.

Which means…this could be the reason why your pup is biting your nose.

Trying To Tell You Something

Your dog can probably already tell you when she’s hungry or needs to go potty, but what if she needs to tell you something new? She might try some odd things, like biting your nose, to try to direct your attention.

If your pup is engaging in this behavior, it could just be that she’s trying to tell you something – it’s just that she doesn’t know how to communicate it more effectively…yet!

She Wants Attention

If your good girl is biting your nose, it could be because she wants your attention. Anyone who has a dog knows how social they are. And how they love interaction with their owners.

If your pup feels like she’s being ignored, she might resort to this or other unwanted behaviors to get your attention.

You Trained Your Dog To Bite Your Nose

In some cases, your pup’s nose-biting behavior might be your fault. If you gave your dog positive attention when she bit your nose, especially if you did it over and over, your dog might now be conditioned to keep doing it!

This is why it’s important to make sure that you’re not inadvertently encouraging any bad behavior! Nose nibbling or otherwise!

Is It Okay To Let My Dog Bite My Nose?

Of course, your dog biting your nose may seem cute when your dog is a puppy, but it can quickly become a bad habit.

It’s understandable that you may want to give your pup some affection, but letting her bite your nose isn’t a good idea. Dogs, just like any other pet (and person!), need to learn boundaries and how to respect those boundaries.

By letting your pooch bite your nose you will send her the wrong message – that it’s okay to bite, or that she can invade your personal space whenever she feels like it.

Doing this can lead to behavioral issues. On top of that, your dog may not understand that biting someone else isn’t okay. Not a good situation for anyone involved!

On top of the behavior problems, it could be dangerous for you also. Even if your pup’s bite is gentle, it can still cause infection if bacteria is transferred.

The other worry is that your dog’s bite can become stronger over time, so it’s important to nip this habit in the bud before it becomes a problem. 

How To Get Your Dog To Stop Biting Your Nose: 8 Tips

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, ‘How do I get my dog to stop biting my nose?’, you’re not alone.

We’ve already discussed that dogs use their mouths to explore the world around them. But, when a dog’s curiosity (or excitement or whatever the reason) leads to biting your nose, it can quickly become an irritating problem.

If you’re ready to put an end to your dog’s nose-biting ways, I have some effective tips to help you stop your dog’s undesirable habit.

1. Use Commands Your Dog Already Understands

You’ve already taught your dog some commands, so why not put them to good use? A firm, calm ‘no’ when your pooch tries to nip your nose can help her understand that it’s not acceptable behavior.

2. Separate Yourself From Your Dog

Every time your dog gets close to your face and attempts to bite your nose, move yourself or your dog away.

The key here is to establish firm boundaries.

3. Emphasize Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog not to bite your nose, or really to do anything.

Instead of punishing your dog, focus on praising and rewarding her when she behaves well. Remember, punishment can have long-lasting problems like behavioral issues or even a damaged relationship between you and your pooch.

4. Get Some Chew Toys

Invest in a few chew toys for your dog to redirect her biting habits. This way, she’ll have something else to play with (and chew on!) instead of your nose!

5. Give Your Dog More Attention

Like I talked about, sometimes, dogs just crave more attention from their owners. Spend time playing with, petting, or cuddling your dog to fulfill her emotional and physical needs.

This will go a long way toward discouraging negative behavior…like biting and nibbling at your nose!

6. Be Consistent With Your Training 

Consistency is key to achieving success in any training. Make sure to apply these tips consistently for better results.

7. Don’t Encourage Your Dog To Bite Your Nose

Be mindful of your actions, because mixed signals can confuse your dog. Avoid playfully encouraging nose biting while you’re rough-housing.

And don’t accidentally encourage the behavior by doing something like telling your dog she’s a good girl and patting her head as you gently push her away when she bites your nose.

All of this and more can send mixed signals to your pooch.

8. Call A Dog Trainer

Sometimes, even the best dog owners need personalized advice. If your dog is persistent in biting your nose despite your efforts, consider calling a professional dog trainer to help you develop a tailored approach to correct this behavior.

Wrapping It Up: Why Do Dogs Like To Bite Noses?

I went over why your dog might be biting your nose and how to get her to stop. It’s important to remember that dogs biting their owners’ noses can be cute and harmless when they’re little, but you’ll need to nip this habit in the bud before it becomes a problem. 

There are many different reasons your dog could be biting your nose, but the most important thing is to recognize that it’s not desirable and that you need to take action.

Use positive reinforcement, provide your good girl with chew toys, and give her plenty of attention. If you’re still struggling, consider seeking professional help from a dog trainer. 

By understanding and addressing the behavior, you’ll be able to ensure that your good girl is happy and healthy for years to come.