Training Tips for a new puppy
Is your puppy chewing on your personal things? If this is not acceptable to you then make sure you keep them out of reach! This sounds pretty simple but you must know that your puppy doesn’t understand that you paid $100 for that brand new pair of sneakers yesterday and that the $5 toy that is in the same room next to your sneakers is what she should be chewing on. It is your responsibility to set your puppy up for success!
It is a natural desire for your puppy to chew. It is important for you to provide them with a good selection of age appropriate toys and treats to chew on. If you give your dog one of your old shoes/slippers don’t be upset when they get bored and chew on one of your new pairs! If you give them a towel to chew on expect they will chew on you fabric furniture or new jacket! Give them something you will be happy for them to chew on so they don’t find something else.
Redirect your puppies attention. Puppies get excited and want to play all the time!. If you are walking around in the morning and the bathrobe you are wearing becomes a target, redirect your puppies attention onto something that they are allowed to play with like a toy or a treat.
Take the time to teach your puppy that teeth on skin or clothing are not allowed. If your puppy nips or mouths at your hands while you are interacting with her get up and leave the room for about 30 seconds. Stop all attention to your puppy immediately. Negative attention like scolding your puppy is attention none the less so just leave the room without saying anything. When you come back into the room begin playing with your puppy again. Repeat leaving the room for 30 seconds if your puppy mouths or nips. If you continue to repeat this, your puppy will learn that the fun stops when she puts her mouth on your skin.