When Cute Just Isn’t Enough!
Hey there,
Let’s face it. Puppies can be jerks.
We know it’s not their fault – they’re babies that need love and boundaries, like all others – but, MAN, this can be hard to remember at times. Here are 10 tips and hacks to help you, your puppy – and your possessions – live in harmony.
10- Take a frustration break when you need one. Taking brief time-outs can be a legitimate survival strategy and help keep the bond between you and your puppy strong.
9- Arrange for “playdates” with friends. You get a break and your puppy gets some fun! Just make sure your friends know the training rules, so you can keep consistency.
8- Provide boredom busters. Puzzle toys, stuffed Kongs, snuffle rugs and interactive electronic toys can all help keep your puppy’s mind active and nose OUT OF TROUBLE.
7- TIRE THEM OUT. Consider adding a few more walks to the day, or hiring a dog walker to take your pup out. You’ll both be rewarded with cuddles when they get home.
6- Consider a mattress (or couch) protector & cleaner. You might not ever need the protector, but you’ll be extra glad to have them, if you do… (says someone who knows…)
5- Make play time, training time. Set two chairs on opposite sides of the yard or big room. Take turns calling your puppy and having them run to and fro. You’re tiring Puppy out and getting some time relaxing with a friend!
4- Let toys be toys. Immediately swap fingers, feet and leashes for real toys — or abruptly walk away from the play session. This teaches that fun will end when they treat you like a chew toy.
3- Just like babies, puppies need a crib. Treat your puppy’s crate like their own comfy den where they can find toys, treats and safety, and they’ll grow up seeing it as a haven, not a cage.
2- Get help with a puppy training book or talk to a local trainer. We recommend a recent publication that includes 21st century info on positive dog training, or a local trainer who uses the same.
1- Prevention is the best medicine. Get on your puppy’s level and consider what could be “tempting,” then remove it or block it for now. Pro-tip: anything that provides a new or interesting texture if chewed, is gonna be uber-interesting for a teething puppy.health
So maybe get one of each! A 2008 study published in the journal Applied Animal Behavior Science found that if a kitten under 6 months and a puppy under a year are introduced, it’s quite likely they’ll be friends. So if you have room in your home and your heart, consider both!
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