Correcting Bad Habits
The best way to correct bad habits is to avoid introducing them to your new puppy. Anticipating and taking action to prevent potential problems makes life easier for you and your puppy. Here are examples of how to help prevent problems before they start.
When the puppy first comes home, do not leave him alone for long periods of time. When he is left alone, he may become frightened or lonesome which may result in destructive behavior. Help him learn to accept being left alone. Begin by leaving him alone for short periods of time in his crate or in an area where he cannot do any damage. Be certain he has a chew bone and/or a favorite toy to help prevent boredom. Gradually increase the length of separation time until he is accustomed to being left alone.
Help your puppy adjust to loud noises. During a thunderstorm, fireworks or any other noisy situation, play with him as you normally do or hold him and in a soothing voice reassure him that “it’s business as usual.”
All puppies tend to chew, especially when they are teething (between 14 and 30 weeks of age). Help your puppy learn that his toys are for chewing. If he chews on anything else, grab him by the scruff of the neck, gently shake him and say “no” in a firm voice. Give him a chew toy, and as he starts chewing it, praise him to let him know this is acceptable behavior. Never give a puppy an old shoe or any other household item to chew. He will think that all shoes or other items are “fair game” for chewing.
Avoid playing tug-of-war with your puppy unless you want an adult dog who bites, pulls and tugs.
Biting can be encouraged by allowing a puppy to bite you during play time. Never wiggle your fingers or hand in a teasing way at a puppy to encourage him to attack you. Avoid letting him attack your arm or leg. Such “attack games” may seem cute when the puppy is little, but the end result is usually an adult dog who bites.
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