Meaning of the word "if you can't bite, never show your teeth" in English

What does "if you can't bite, never show your teeth" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

if you can't bite, never show your teeth

US /ɪf juː kænt baɪt, ˈnɛvər ʃoʊ jʊər tiːθ/
UK /ɪf juː kɑːnt baɪt, ˈnɛvə ʃəʊ jɔː tiːθ/
"if you can't bite, never show your teeth" picture

Idiom

do not threaten someone if you do not have the power or intention to follow through with it

Example:
He kept making empty threats, but I told him, 'If you can't bite, never show your teeth.'
Don't warn them about legal action unless you are prepared to sue; if you can't bite, never show your teeth.