Puppies! Those bundles of adorable fluff that melt your heart and leave a trail of chewed-up slippers in their wake. Let’s be honest, while they’re undeniably cute, puppyhood can also come with some unexpected challenges. From barking marathons to a sudden taste for your furniture, these little furballs can test your patience like nothing else.

But fear not, fellow puppy parents! These challenges are totally normal, and with a little puppy training in Toronto, you can transform your tiny terror into a well-behaved canine companion. Here’s a look at the top 5 puppy quirks and some tips to help you navigate this hilarious (and sometimes frustrating) phase:

1. Chewing Everything in Sight

The Problem

Puppies love to chew, and it’s not uncommon to find your favourite shoes or furniture legs covered in bite marks. This behaviour is natural as puppies explore the world with their mouths and soothe their teething pain.

The Solution

To curb this behaviour, provide plenty of appropriate chew toys. When you catch your puppy chewing on something they shouldn’t, gently redirect them to a toy. Consistency is key—praise them when they chew on the right items. Puppy-proof your home by keeping valuable and dangerous items out of reach.

2. Excessive Barking

The Problem

While barking is a normal way for puppies to communicate, excessive barking can be a nuisance. It often stems from boredom, anxiety, or a desire for attention.

The Solution

First, identify the cause of the barking. If your puppy is bored, ensure they get plenty of physical and mental exercise. Puzzle toys and interactive games can help keep them entertained. If the barking is due to anxiety, try creating a calm environment and using desensitization techniques. Training commands like “quiet” or “enough” can also be useful, combined with positive reinforcement when your puppy stops barking on command.

3. Potty Training Accidents

The Problem

Potty training is one of the most frustrating aspects of puppyhood. Accidents in the house can test any owner’s patience.

The Solution

Establish a consistent potty schedule, taking your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Praise and reward your puppy when they go outside. If an accident happens indoors, clean it thoroughly to remove any scent markers that might encourage repeat offences. Patience and consistency are crucial—every puppy learns at their own pace.

4. Jumping on People

The Problem

Puppies often jump on people to greet them, which might be cute when they’re small but can become problematic as they grow larger.

The Solution

Teach your puppy to sit to greet people instead. When your puppy jumps, turn away and ignore them until they calm down and sit. Once they sit, offer praise and a treat. Consistency from everyone in the household and visitors is essential to reinforce this behaviour.

5. Nipping and Biting

The Problem

Puppies use their mouths to play and explore, but nipping and biting can hurt and become a bad habit.

The Solution

Socialize your puppy with other dogs so they learn bite inhibition. When your puppy nips you, let out a high-pitched “ouch” to mimic how another dog might react. Stop playing and withdraw attention for a few moments. Offer chew toys to redirect their biting behaviour. Dog training in Toronto can also provide a structured environment for learning appropriate behaviour.

Conclusion

Dealing with common puppy behaviour problems can be challenging, but with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, you can help your furry friend become a well-behaved member of your family. Remember, professional training resources like puppy training in Toronto are available if you need extra support. Happy training, and enjoy every moment with your playful pup!