Puppy Behaviors to Correct Early for a Well-Behaved Dog

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its challenges. Proper training is essential to ensure your puppy grows into a well-mannered adult dog. Here are five common puppy behaviors to address early on:

1. Chewing

Why Puppies Chew
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, leading them to chew on everything from shoes to furniture. While this is natural behavior, it can become destructive if not managed.

How to Stop Destructive Chewing

• Provide Chew Toys: Offer a variety of safe chew toys to satisfy their urge.
• Supervise Closely: Keep an eye on your puppy and redirect them to a toy if they start chewing on inappropriate items.
• Positive Reinforcement: Praise your puppy when they chew on the right things.

2. Biting

Understanding Puppy Biting
Biting is another normal behavior for puppies, especially during teething. However, it's important to teach them bite inhibition early.

How to Discourage Biting

• Teach Bite Inhibition: When your puppy bites too hard, yelp or say "ouch" to signal that it's too rough.
• Redirect and Reward: Redirect biting to toys and reward gentle play.

3. Jumping

Why Puppies Jump
Puppies jump to greet people, but this behavior can be problematic as they grow larger.

How to Prevent Jumping

• Ignore the Jumping: Don't give attention when they jump; only interact when all four paws are on the ground.
• Teach Commands: Train your puppy to sit or stay when greeting people.

4. Separation Anxiety

What is Separation Anxiety?
Puppies can become anxious when left alone, leading to destructive behaviors and excessive barking.

How to Ease Separation Anxiety

• Gradual Alone Time: Slowly increase the time your puppy spends alone.
• Comfort Items: Provide toys, blankets, or stuffed animals to comfort them.
• Consistent Routine: Establish a consistent schedule to reduce anxiety.

5. Housebreaking

Potty Training Basics
Housebreaking can be one of the most challenging parts of puppy training but is crucial for a well-behaved dog.

How to Potty Train Your Puppy

• Set a Routine: Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after eating or sleeping.
• Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your puppy when they potty outside.
• Avoid Punishment: Never punish for accidents; instead, focus on consistent training.

Correcting common puppy behaviors early on is key to raising a well-behaved dog. By addressing chewing, biting, jumping, separation anxiety, and housebreaking with consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can ensure a happy and healthy relationship with your furry friend.