A reminder for wrangling in your new furry friend
Raising a puppy isn’t always easy, but it is 100% worth it. Keep in mind that it’s their first time figuring out the world. To do that, they need a lot of love, structure, and patience. The start of your journey together is the perfect chance to lay the foundation for a well-behaved dog. After all, you’re building a bond that will last a lifetime.
Our top 10 tips
Besides pet parent basics, like feeding schedules, here are some tips that’ll help you get through the puppy phase with your sanity (mostly) intact:
- Start training early and be very consistent. It’s easy to let bad habits slide when your pup looks so cuddly and cute. But those little behaviors can turn into big problems. If you’re able to take them to a training class, great! Otherwise, training at home is also a great option. Try 10-minute sessions at a time, once or twice a day, with high-value treats.
- Get your pup comfortable with you being near while they eat. Gently place your hand near their bowl, or trade our kibble for treats mid-meal. This helps them trust you, and it makes it easier to intervene if they grab something they shouldn’t (like your sock or food scraps off the sidewalk).
- Create a potty training schedule. In addition to taking your puppy potty first thing in the morning, after meals, after playtime, and before bed, they will likely need to go every two hours during the day. Praise them every time they go in the right spot.
- Condition them to being touched. Of course, every dog has their own personality and requests your attention in a different way – but if you want a snuggly pup, handle them frequently. Gently play with their ears, paws, and belly. Cuddle on the couch. Additionally, give them positive associations with being touched makes future vet visits, nail trims, and grooming sessions way less anxiety-inducing.
- Make time every day for exercise. Walks, playtime, puzzles, fetch, and even socializing will all help burn off energy and reduce destructive behavior. A tired puppy is a good puppy. If they don’t have an outlet – especially if they’re a working dog breed, like a border collie or an Australian cattle dog – they’ll find one. Stairs, chairs, shoes, walls, your vintage rug… No item is safe.
- Socialize your dog safely and slowly. Bringing your puppy around other dogs gives them changes to make friends and learn how to relax about them. This is especially helpful for when they see other animals “in the wild”. Ease in slowly, even if that means sitting outside a coffee shop or park where your pup can watch others engage.
- Watch out for signs of separation anxiety. Many puppies struggle when left alone. Crate training can help soothe this if yours is chewing, barking/whining, or going to the bathroom in the house while you’re gone. It gives them a safe space, helps prevent accidents and destruction, and builds independence. With time and consistency, most pups learn to relax solo.
- Puppy-proof your home. As you know, puppies are curious… and they explore the world with their mouths. Keep them safe and protect your stuff by removing potential hazards. Tuck away cords, block off staircases, remove anything chewable or toxic, and get down on their level to see what they might get into.
- Focus on and reward good behavior. It’s only natural that your puppy will make mistakes. Negative interactions, especially at a young age, can create fear and confusion, as your dog might not understand that you’re upset about. Instead, take a breath in the hard moments and focus on rewarding the good stuff.
- Remember: You’re the alpha. Dogs are pack animals, so it makes sense that clear leadership helps them feel safe. Be kind, firm, and consistent with your boundaries.
