After your family has chosen the perfect pup and you bring them home the real work begins, such as house breaking them. When a pup discovers they can get their way by whining or barking they will continue this behavior.
It is up to you to teach pups, the human is leader of the pack from the beginning. The longer you wait the harder it will be to break a bad habit; pups are so cute we tend to let them have their way in the beginning, this just makes it harder on you. Some habits are inbred instincts, which take a little longer and more patience to break.
You may find some of the suggestions below helpful, while teaching your pup good behavior:
1. You should never reward bad behavior, such as giving your pup a treat to keep them quiet; rewards come after they have followed your commands. Rewarding your pup does not necessarily mean giving them a treat; you can scratch them behind their ear or rub their tummy, along with a good boy. After a while the treats given a pup can cause weight problems, your pup will appreciate you love and attention just as much.
2. Make teaching your pup a family affair, the children must also let the pup know they a pack leader as well. Children can start by teaching the pup to always walk to their side or back, while letting the human go through a doorway or gate first. While walking your pup and an aggressive dog appears, teach your pup to sit by your side. Your pup will enjoy learning, as long as you are patient, firm and consistent.
3. If your pup starts to nip while at play, immediately act as if you are hurt and stop playing, ignoring them for a while. After a few minutes you can start playing, scratching their ear and praising them. If they nip you again, ignore them after a few times of being ignored they will stop the behavior.
4. Make sure your pup has plenty of toys are bones to chew on; this will help prevent them from chewing on your furniture and other items in your home. Often owners will give their pup old socks or an old slipper to chew on, this is not good, the pup might get the idea it is fine for them to chew on all slippers or socks.
When your pup tends to be pushing you to the limit, make him earn all treats and praises, ignoring bad behavior and giving praise and treats as a reward only for good behavior.
Dr. Susan Wright DMV is a dedicated veterinarian that enjoys writing articles highlighting various aspects of dog training.
Teaching Your Pup Good Behavior
