How to Overcome Puppy Behaviour Challenges

Puppies are bundles of energy and curiosity, and sometimes their behaviour can feel like a puzzle you’re not quite sure how to solve. Don’t worry, I’m here to share some practical tips for puppy behaviour that will help you build a happy, well-behaved companion.

Understanding Common Puppy Behaviour Challenges

Puppies are learning about the world, and their behaviour reflects that. Some common challenges include biting, chewing, barking, and house-training accidents. All of these behaviours are NORMAL! For example, biting and chewing are ways puppies explore and soothe their gums during teething.

Here are two examples of puppy behaviours and what they might mean:

• Biting: playing, discovering boundaries, exploring, boredom, teething discomfort, and so much more

• Barking: communicating with humans, alerting, seeking attention, playing, establishing boundaries, and so much more.

How to Handle Biting and Chewing

The key is to teach your puppy what’s acceptable and what’s not, without scaring or punishing them.

• Provide chew toys to satisfy your puppy’s need to chew.

• When your puppy bites your hand or clothes, say “Ouch!” loudly and stop playing for a moment. This mimics how puppies learn bite inhibition from their littermates.

• Redirect biting to a toy immediately after.

Remember the essentials when training your Puppy

So let’s talk about some practical tips that you can start using right away.

1. Set a consistent routine: Puppies thrive on routine. Feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and training sessions should happen at roughly the same times every day. This helps your puppy know what to expect and reduces anxiety. And the secret is to create this routine around your own schedule.

   
   

2. Use positive reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, or play. This encourages your puppy to repeat those behaviours.

   
   

3. Redirect unwanted behaviour: If your puppy is biting or chewing something inappropriate, gently redirect them to a toy or chew item. This teaches them what’s okay to chew.

   
   

4. Keep training sessions short and fun: Aim for 5-10 minute sessions multiple times a day. End on a positive note to keep your puppy eager to learn.

   
   

5. Socialise your puppy: Introduce your puppy to different people, places, and other dogs in a controlled way. This builds confidence and reduces fear-based behaviours.

   
   

Remember, patience is key! Puppies are learning a whole new world, and your calm, consistent guidance makes all the difference.

Training is about building a loving relationship with your puppy. When you spend time teaching and playing together, you create trust and understanding.

Be patient and consistent. Your puppy will learn best when they feel safe and supported.

Remember, every puppy is unique. Celebrate small wins and enjoy the journey of growing together.

If you want a tailored training for you and your pup's needs, then book your free consultation call.

Keep Going: you’re Doing Great!