Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time. However, puppies don’t usually come just with cuteness. They bring responsibilities that we need to take care of.
Addressing certain behaviors early on can prevent them from becoming ingrained habits that are difficult to break later. Here are five puppy behaviors to nip in the bud early for a well-behaved dog:
1. Nipping and Biting: 
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, but it's essential to teach them that biting humans is not acceptable. When your puppy nips or bites, let out a yelp or say "ouch" in a high-pitched tone to mimic a littermate's reaction. Immediately stop playtime or interaction, as this teaches your puppy that biting leads to the end of fun. Redirect their attention to a chew toy or bone to encourage appropriate chewing behavior.
2. Jumping Up: 
It's natural for puppies to greet people by jumping up, but this behavior can become problematic as they grow. To discourage jumping, ignore your puppy when they jump up and only give attention when all four paws are on the ground. You can also train your puppy to sit as an alternative greeting behavior. Consistency is key, so enlist the help of family members and visitors to reinforce this training.
3. Excessive Barking: 
While barking is a form of communication for dogs, excessive barking can be disruptive. Address this behavior early by identifying the triggers and teaching your puppy the "quiet" command. When your puppy barks, wait for a moment of silence and then reward them with praise and treats. Gradually increase the duration of silence before giving the reward to encourage longer periods of quiet behavior.
4. Chewing on Furniture and Belongings:
Puppies love to chew, but they don't always discriminate between appropriate and inappropriate items. Provide plenty of chew toys and bones to satisfy your puppy's chewing needs and prevent them from targeting your furniture and belongings. When you catch your puppy chewing on something they shouldn't, interrupt the behavior with a firm "no" and redirect them to an acceptable chew toy.
5. Pulling on the Leash:
Leash training is crucial for both the safety of your puppy and your enjoyment of walks together. Start by teaching your puppy to walk on a loose leash using positive reinforcement techniques. Whenever your puppy walks beside you without pulling, reward them with treats and praise. If your puppy starts to pull, stop walking and wait for them to calm down before resuming. Consistency and patience will help your puppy learn proper leash manners.
Addressing these behaviors early on will set the foundation for a well-behaved dog. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive in your training efforts, and always reward good behavior to reinforce desired actions. With time and dedication, your puppy will grow into a beautiful, loving and well-mannered canine that brings joy to your life.
