Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, but it often comes with a unique set of behavioral challenges that can leave even the most devoted owners feeling overwhelmed. This article addresses common issues such as jumping, nipping, excessive barking, destructive digging, and constant licking, offering practical advice grounded in canine behavior principles. The goal is to help you manage and modify these behaviors, strengthening your bond with your canine companion and avoiding the difficult decision of rehoming.
Navigating Puppy Behavior: A Common Scenario
Many puppy owners find themselves grappling with behaviors like jumping and nipping, especially when guests visit. A common scenario involves a puppy that, despite attempts at gentle redirection and guest acknowledgment, continues to jump and nip. This can be particularly frustrating when the puppy also exhibits other challenging behaviors, such as not responding to recall commands, persistent barking, destructive digging, and excessive licking of household items. These issues can strain a dog-owner relationship, leading to stress and despair.
Addressing Jumping and Nipping at Guests
The tendency for puppies to jump and nip when visitors arrive is a frequent concern. Strategies like having guests ignore the puppy initially, followed by a controlled introduction, are often attempted. However, a common mistake is inadvertently creating a “restrained recall,” where holding the puppy back before calling them intensifies their excitement and frustration, leading to more boisterous greetings.
A more effective approach involves keeping the puppy on a leash when guests arrive. Using gentle leash pops, as taught in obedience classes, can help manage the puppy’s enthusiasm. Do not allow the puppy to approach guests until they are calm. While guests ignore the puppy, allow brief sniffing opportunities. The moment the puppy jumps or nips, interrupt the behavior with a leash pop and have guests immediately disengage. Persistent jumping should be met with a non-engaging correction, such as a gentle nudge with the knee or hand, without direct eye contact or verbal commands. Consistency and a focus on calm behavior are key.
Managing Unwanted Attention-Seeking Behaviors
When a puppy resorts to nipping or biting at a person’s legs or behind when ignored, it often stems from a misunderstanding of the “ignoring” technique. Turning your back can be interpreted as an invitation to play “tag” or “keep away,” rather than a genuine disengagement. This human yielding of personal space can escalate the puppy’s behavior.
True ignoring, as advocated by experts, means acting as if the dog is not present – no touch, no talk, no eye contact. While the unwanted behavior might not stop instantly, consistent application of this “extinction” method often leads to a reduction in such attention-seeking actions. If the behavior persists, a non-engaging correction can be used, but the primary focus must remain on withholding attention. For more persistent issues, consider resources on dog training for behavior problems near me.
Curbing Excessive Barking
Persistent barking, especially in the evenings, can be incredibly draining for owners. Conflicting strategies, such as trying to ignore the barking while simultaneously attempting to soothe the dog with petting, lead to inconsistency and confusion for the puppy. This lack of a unified approach prevents any single method from being effective.
The solution lies in consistent application of the “Play Hard To Get Rule.” This means ignoring the puppy’s demands for attention, including barking. Attention should only be given when initiated by the owner, and even then, it’s best to call the puppy over calmly after they have settled down. This teaches the puppy that barking and jumping are not effective ways to gain attention. Applying principles similar to those for jumping and nipping can help manage this behavior.
Addressing Destructive Digging and Chewing
Destructive behaviors like digging up the yard or chewing on household items are common in puppies, often stemming from boredom, excess energy, or a lack of appropriate outlets. While deterrents like chili powder may offer temporary relief, their effectiveness wanes, and they don’t address the root cause.
A more holistic approach involves providing adequate exercise and appropriate chew toys, such as bones or stuffed Kongs. For digging, if it’s a targeted issue, reapplying deterrents consistently can help. However, teaching a solid “Leave It” command, often covered in a Basic Obedience Class, is crucial for addressing digging and excessive licking of household items. Safe, non-toxic sprays can be used on furniture and walls to deter licking, but always test for staining first.
Understanding Puppy Needs
It’s important to remember that many of these “problem” behaviors are simply normal canine behaviors that are not aligned with human expectations. Young dogs have abundant energy, a need to play, and a desire to explore their world through chewing and sniffing. As owners, our role is to fulfill these needs in constructive ways, rather than solely trying to suppress the behaviors. This might involve more frequent walks, opportunities for safe off-leash running, and consistent training. Consider exploring resources on out of control puppy behavior for further guidance.
Conclusion: Patience and Consistent Training
Managing puppy behavior requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of canine needs. By implementing consistent training strategies, providing adequate physical and mental stimulation, and refraining from conflicting or ineffective methods, you can successfully guide your puppy through this challenging developmental stage. If you continue to struggle with specific issues, seeking professional guidance from a certified dog trainer can provide tailored solutions and support. Remember, with the right approach, you can overcome these hurdles and build a strong, lasting relationship with your dog.
Chad Culp – Certified Dog Trainer, Canine Behavior Consultant, Owner of Thriving Canine.
© Thriving Canine 2022
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