How to Raise a Well-Behaved Puppy
Getting a puppy is always exciting. They’re adorable, they’re fun and no matter what they do, they’re cute. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for owners to let their puppy get away with things they shouldn’t because, as a puppy, it is cute. Or, the owners just don’t know what they shouldn’t and should let their puppy do. Here are the crucial things you need to make sure to do when you get a new puppy.
First of all, you shouldn’t ever bring home a puppy that is younger than eight weeks. During the first eight week of their life, they go through many development periods that are crucial to their long term well being. Removing a puppy from its mother and littermates too early causes behavior problems down the road.
Second, you need to start potty training immediately. Don’t let any bad potty habits form during those first few days you have them home, because those can be hard to reverse. I suggest teaching your puppy to go potty outside right from the beginning, rather than paper training them.
Third, don’t allow your puppy to playfully nip at you. This mistake is fairly common, and one you will regret. Puppies should not ever be allowed to bite hands or feet, even if it’s just playing. This includes playing underneath blankets or pillows.
Fourth, teach your puppy right from the beginning that you are the alpha dog. Also known as the ‘pack leader’. Even though dogs are domesticated, they still have natural instincts. They still expect to be part of a pack, and every pack needs a pack leader.
Your puppy expects to have a pack leader. If you don’t establish yourself as the leader, they will, and it’ll cause numerous behavior problems down the road. Do a search online for more information on this if you don’t know what it is. It’s important to know and use this information.
Lastly (but definitely not least), your puppy needs to be gradually and carefully exposed to new, unfamiliar people, sounds, things, people, and so on. Do whatever you can to ensure these experiences are good ones. Bring along delicious treats and be prepare to give them lots of enthusiastic praise during the process.
Thanks for reading and I hope this article has given you insight on how to raise a happy, healthy, well-behaved dog. Follow the tips provided here and you’ll wind up with a great companion.
Go read more great tips and tricks about solving bad dog behavior at http://www.DogBehaviorExpert.com