Puppy Manners

Let’s talk about manners. Of course puppies are cute no matter what! Puppy behaviours can seem harmless and endearing, even entertaining, when enacted by a tiny 10lb ball of fluff , right?

But what about when that 10 lbs becomes 60lbs? Or more?

That is why, as a breeder, I implore my puppy families ro keep in mind what behaviours they would like to see in their adult dogs, and to set expectations for behaviour from their puppy from the go home date.

Some simple little tricks we use with our dogs to ensure our expectations are clear and proper behaviours are taught and positively reinforced to ensure the shaping of a well behaved canine companion :

1. Sit/ stay on the mat at the door EVERY TIME the pup comes in from outside. This teaches puppy that he is not allowed to run directly into the house after potty breaks ( this also saves cleaning dirty footprints every day- the primary housekeeper will thank you!)

2. Sit/stay beside the couch or bed no jumping up unless invited.

3. Sit/stay away from the dinner table, no feeding from the table - prevents begging and drooling at meal times!

4. Down command - reinforce DOWN - never allowing puppy to jump up on you - this will prevent muddy paw prints on good clothes when you are trying to get out the door for an important event !

5. Redirect - ALWAYS correct a chewing puppy - exchanging an acceptable chew toy for whatever random item they may be “harmlessly” playing with or mouthing.

6. Remove the temptation - Ensure any desireable but off-limits items are out of sight/reach to avoid the need to correct a bad habit later!

7. ALWAYS praise and reward your puppy for the correct behaviours, showing love and affection as well as small treats or play rewards so they have a desire to continue to adhere to the desired behaviours.

   
   

Remember - being firm with your puppy from the get go allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable relationship with your puppy in the long run!