Everything about puppies is cute, but there are definitely some bad puppy behaviors you should nip in the bud early on – because these things that are normal in young dogs, can turn into serious behavioral issues once they’re bigger if left unchecked.

It might seem funny when a little pup nibbles your toes with its tiny teeth, but fast-forward 12 months, and it’s an altogether different prospect. From nipping at clothes to chewing furniture and barking at shadows, puppies are full of energy and learning how to navigate the world. Use these early days to set boundaries and teach them the right way to behave, rather than indulging behaviors that will soon not be acceptable.

With the help of expert vet Dr Hannah Godfrey, we walk through 20 bad puppy behaviors that may seem harmless (or even adorable) at first but can lead to frustration and bigger problems down the line....

20 bad puppy behaviors you should nip in the bud

1. Biting or nipping

Like teething babies, mouthy puppies are to be expected. But learning how to stop a puppy nipping is a crucial part of owning a young dog.

Dr Godfrey says: “I see lots of pet parents of new puppies who are concerned about their puppy biting or nipping them, particularly their fingers and toes.

“This is a normal part of puppy development, and can be worsened by teething, but it’s important to discourage it and provide an outlet that isn’t going to cause you or other people an injury as they get older.”

2. Resource guarding

If your puppy appears to be resource guarding what he considers a treasured item, it’s a good idea to address this unwanted behavior early before it escalates into aggression. Training and positive reinforcement will help build trust so that the pup understands he doesn’t need to protect what he sees as his resources.

3. Chewing

“Chewing can be a really frustrating behavior for pet parents, because it can cause damage to the home as well as being a risk to your puppy’s health,” warns Dr Godfrey.

“If you want to reduce the chance of your pup destroying your wallpaper, carpets, or cushions in the future, it’s a good idea to make sure they know what’s OK to chew and what isn’t.”

Stop a puppy chewing by providing appropriate outlets, such as puppy-safe chew toys, which you hand to them so they understand they can’t help themselves to any shoe or chair leg that takes their fancy.

4. Separation anxiety

Puppies should not be left alone for very long, but they do need to gradually get used to you being out of the house for extended periods or they will develop separation anxiety.

Start with very short periods, slowly increasing the duration you are away. Dogs tend to respond well to routine, so if they are well settled in a schedule of walks, feeding, playtime, and downtime, then you can time your outings for a moment when they need to rest.

A crate or designated safe space will help create a sense of security while they wait for your return.

5. Pulling on the leash

“If your puppy pulls on the leash, it might not feel like a problem when they don’t weigh much,” says Dr Godfrey. “However, I’ve seen plenty of pet parents being dragged into the consult room by their dog, so it’s not ideal once they get older and stronger.”

Not only is it an annoying and exhausting habit, but pulling on the leash is bad for the dog physically. Leash training is essential.

“Teaching your pup to walk to heel will help to keep you both safe and prevent pressure on their throat and windpipe,” adds Hannah.

6. Ignoring commands

While a confident, independent puppy is a good thing, if they pay no attention to you, they’ll end up with poor manners, with potentially dangerous consequences.

Keep their focus on you. Make yourself fun and interesting, so they are always curious to know what you’re going to do or ask next. If they are so distracted that they can’t hear you, it becomes impossible to train necessities such as recall.

7. Jumping up

Most people do not enjoy a dog jumping up at them. It can be intimidating, annoying – not to mention the possibility of muddy paws on white trousers!

Dr Godfrey says that jumping up is a behavior that is often tolerated for too long.

“It might seem fun when your puppy jumps up on your legs, but as they get older and heavier, it can cause injuries,” she says.

“On top of this, visitors to your home may feel nervous around dogs or may not appreciate being jumped on, so it’s a good idea to train your puppy not to jump up from a young age.”

8. Whining

You cannot begin to stop your puppy whining until you have discovered the root cause of their behavior. Each reason will require a different approach. First up, rule out any discomfort: are they in pain, feeling cold, or do they need to go to the bathroom? They may be feeling fearful or anxious and will need comfort and security, such as a safe place.

But many puppies whine for attention, and this can be perpetuated into adulthood if you always react, whether to tell them off or to get rid of the noise. Instead, reward quiet behavior so that they learn not to whine with positive reinforcement.

9. Humping

You might not know it, but both male and female dogs hump sometimes, and for lots of reasons.

Vet Hannah Godfrey says there’s not an obvious quick fix, but it is a behavior that needs to be stopped rather than ignored.

“Neutering doesn’t always solve the problem, because it can be due to boredom or frustration,” she says. “Distracting your dog when they start to get overexcited will help to stop the behavior from becoming a habit, which is important.

“Remember, not everyone wants to have their leg humped, and if a male dog gets overexcited they can develop paraphimosis, where the penis becomes stuck outside of the prepuce, obstructing the blood flow. This is a veterinary emergency.”

10. Chasing moving objects

Dogs have a natural prey drive, and many a playful puppy will love to chase anything that moves, whether it’s small animals, leaves, or even shadows. While playtime is great for puppies, if you cannot call your dog away from the chasing – for instance, another animal – or it becomes obsessive, then you have a problem.

From the outset, train your puppy not to rush after anything that moves by teaching them recall (try this trainer’s clever recall tip), reward them when they stay calm and ignore potential prey, and distracting them, redirecting their attention in a positive way. This is particularly important if you have a breed with a high prey drive.

11. Barking at visitors

Although some dogs are quiet, many love to bark. This can be a useful attribute, but when they do not stop on command, it becomes problematic so instil correct behavior early on to stop excessive barking.

Dr Godfrey says: “Visitors to your home deserve to feel safe. Whether they’re delivering letters and parcels or they’re a friend coming over for a catch-up, you should discourage your puppy from barking and racing to the door, particularly if they’re prone to getting overexcited. Instead, encourage them to go to their bed or crate when the doorbell rings.”

12. Fearful reactions to new people or dogs

A critical period for puppies to socialize is in the first few weeks of their life, from around three to 14 weeks. It’s vital that they get out and about (post-vaccinations) and meet many friendly, calm people and other dogs, as this is when they are receptive to learning about the world around them.

It’s a crucial time to help them develop into confident grown-up pups, and those who miss out on this socialization can often become fearful or even aggressive.

13. Counter surfing

Puppies are too small for counter-surfing, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t sniffing out the important places they’d like to reach when their legs are long enough. Keep tempting items well out of the way of their super-sensitive noses, as well as training your puppy to “leave” whatever you do not want them sniffing, licking, or picking up.

Don’t leave your puppy unattended in areas where food might be within reach. It might be just too tempting when your back is turned!

14. Begging

The first time a puppy begs for food, it’s almost quite endearing, but if you give in to this behavior and drop them a titbit, it will quickly become a very rewarding habit for them. This isn’t good for their weight or their diet, as well as being annoying.

To stop dogs begging for food, ignore them and distract them with a favorite toy. Establish a routine so that they come to expect food at particular times and within a schedule.

15. Digging

A puppy who loves to dig is likely to be a livewire who is seeking physical and mental stimulation. It can be difficult to stop a dog digging, but if you are able to provide an outlet for their energy, such as playing, walks, training games, and puzzles, you may find the digging behavior reduces.

If they simply love the sensation of digging, then consider making a designated area, such as a sandpit, where they can play in this way and let off steam. You can hide their favourite toys in there so they learn that it’s permitted in this exclusive zone.

16. Eating poop

While eating poop isn’t the worst thing in the world in terms of a pup’s health, it’s a disgusting habit and can expose them to parasites and viruses. It may be a learned behavior from their mum, a form of exploration, they may genuinely like the smell and taste (yuck!), or they may simply be bored.

One straightforward way to minimise their poop eating is to clear any feces up immediately. Don’t panic, but it’s best to stop your dog eating poop while they are still young and haven’t made a habit of it.

17. Barging out the door

The average puppy may be bouncy, but they’re usually too small and weak to barge in front of you when you are about to go through a door. However, they very quickly become stronger and, relishing the freedom that an open door promises, often develop this pushy habit.

Management and training are vital to nip barging in the bud. It can be a dangerous habit if you live near a road. Use baby gates or leashes to restrict access, and train your pup to wait calmly, with rewards, until he learns the desired behavior.

18. Over-reliance on treats

Treats can be so useful as you work on training your pup with positive reinforcement. They are high value, making them a substantial reward, however, it’s handy to have other methods of reinforcing good behavior so you aren’t totally reliant on a pocketful of treats. Gradually decrease how frequently you feed titbits, and alternate with other nice things, such as praise, toys, and a good scratch.

19. Not learning to settle

Puppies tend to whizz around like mini tornadoes and then conk out and sleep like babies. However, as they get stronger and need less rest, those energy levels stay high for longer. It’s so important to establish a command that tells the pup to settle, that playtime is over, and he needs to be calm.

A safe space, such as a crate or comfy bed, is usually a good place for them to rest, as well as a routine so they understand what happens when.

20. Fear of grooming

Many dogs need copious grooming sessions, some daily, others at least weekly. Some need to visit the grooming parlour because they require clipping or trimming. All dogs at some stage will need a bath. So it’s best to normalize the activity of grooming right from the start, then your pup will think it’s a regular part of life.

For brushing, bathing, and clipping, begin with short, very gentle sessions, introducing the grooming tools gradually. It’s a great time for bonding, too!

Read next: How to discipline a puppy

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

No matter what kind of animal you have, becoming a pet parent is a big responsibility and completely changes your life. From ensuring they get enough exercise to feeding them the best cat food or dog food – there are lots of things to remember every single day.

It goes without saying that we would do anything for our beloved furry friends, but sometimes things get overlooked or forgotten accidentally. While it might not be the owner’s intention, these oversights can lead to pain and unwanted vet visits in the future.

Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald, a vet for more than 40 years and star of Animal Planet’s Emergency Vets and E-Vet Intern, has seen his fair share of trips to the ER. Below, he reveals the most common mistakes pet owners make that lead to emergency visits. Our vet, Dr Rebecca MacMillan, has also given her expert insight on why these errors can be so dangerous.

Have you made any of these?

1. Letting dogs off leash at parks

It's pretty common to see dogs walking off-leash – especially if they've mastered their recall training – but Dr. Fitzgerald advises against it for their safety.

Not only does it increase your dog's chances of being hit by a vehicle, but it also poses risks such as encountering toxic materials, snakes, bees, spiders, and wildlife, as well as getting into fights. Your pooch might also become trapped in lakes or rivers or find themselves lost.

Dr. MacMillan adds: "Letting your dog off on the leash in the park should only be done if you can completely rely on their recall ability and, even then, it is still not without risk. Parks are busy places, with joggers, squirrels, cyclists, other dogs, ducks, and children all sharing the same space.

"If your dog is not well-trained this could result in an accident. The other problem with city parks is that they are often not fenced, and your dog could easily run out into a nearby road, especially if they are in hot pursuit of a squirrel!

"Road traffic accidents can leave your dog injured or even dead. It is far better to let your dog off the leash in the countryside (with no livestock around) or in a safe, fenced area, especially while they are still training."

2. Leaving teething puppies unsupervised

If you've got a teething puppy on your hands, you should avoid leaving them unattended. Dr. Fitzgerald says this is another one of the most common mistakes he's seen, as dogs can "ingest and swallow dangerous objects and end up needing surgery".

Dr. MacMillan adds: "A teething puppy will take it upon themselves to chew anything! If your pup is unsupervised there is a risk of them chewing things like electrical wires which could result in electrocution or household plants that could cause stomach upsets.

"Other items, such as socks, may be accidentally swallowed during chewing, leading to a dangerous blockage in their digestive tract. It is always best to watch your puppy, but if you need to leave them unsupervised for a short period then you should create a puppy safe zone in the house.

“This is far safer than giving them free access to your whole home. Make sure they have plenty of puppy-safe teething toys to keep them busy, too."

3. Leaving dogs unsupervised together

Dr. Fitzgerald also warns against leaving dogs together unsupervised, as this can lead to dog bites that require treatment.

Dr. MacMillan adds: "Leaving dogs unsupervised together can be risky, especially if one of the dogs is possessive over resources. I also see problems with elderly dogs that don’t appreciate having a bouncy, young puppy around. Fights easily break out over toys, bedding or food.

"Dog fights can be nasty business, with bite wounds causing bruising, tissue damage, and infection. In the very worst case, dogs can even die due to fighting especially if one of them has a size advantage.

"Unless you completely trust your dogs together, keep them in separate rooms while you are out. I also recommend feeding your dogs separately and watching to make sure that they stay apart, to avoid sudden fights occurring."

4. Exercising in extreme temperatures

It's super-important to ensure your dog gets enough activity, but exercising them in extreme temperatures can do more harm than good. Dr. Fitzgerald says owners should think twice before taking them out in harsh conditions – whether it's too cold or too hot.

If you're feeling on the fence, you might want to read our guides that answer: What temperature is too cold to walk a dog and when is it too hot to walk your dog?

Dr. MacMillan adds: "Exercising your dog in extreme temperatures is incredibly dangerous. Too hot and your dog is at risk of heat stroke, too cold and they are at risk of hypothermia.

"No dog has died from missing a walk or two, but plenty have from being exercised during inappropriate weather. It is important to take into account your dog’s breed and health status when making decisions about exercise at various temperatures, too.

"For example, a very large dog with a thick coat, or a flat-faced breed like a bulldog, will be more susceptible to problems in warm weather, and skinny, elderly, or young animals will be at increased risk during cold snaps. Be sensible, perhaps change the timing of your walk or stay at home if you are unsure."

Dr. Fitzgerald's book, It Started with a Turtle: One Man's Life on a Blue & Green Planet, is available on Amazon.

Want more expert advice? Read how to be the best dog owner and ways to show your dog you love them. Or, learn how to greet a dog

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

Leash training is important for all dogs – it helps to keep them safe, as well as other people and dogs around them, but it’s not always easy to get it right.

In the US, dog ownership laws can vary between jurisdictions, so you might find that dogs need to be kept on the best dog leashes if you don’t want to be fined. And, in the UK, a temporary new law is currently in action that requires dogs to be kept on a leash when near livestock or on open access land – including forests, lakes, and beaches – to protect ground-nesting birds.

So, wherever you are in the world, leash training is vital. And, Dr. Sean McCormack, head vet at Tails.com, has offered some expert advice so we know what to do when leash training a puppy.

Dr. McCormack advises getting one of the best dog harnesses, a lightweight lead, a collar and ID tag, and some delicious treats. Keep in mind that leash training isn’t an obedience exercise – the aim is a dog who’ll happily walk beside you on a loose leash.

Tips for leashing training a puppy

1. Start indoors in a quiet area without a collar, harness, or leash.

2. Reward your pup with a treat whenever they are next to you, regardless of which side they’re on. Dr. McCormack describes this as making the space beside you a “magic spot” for them.

3. Repeat until your dog understands that being next to you means getting treats.

4. Hold a treat near their nose, take some steps forward, and then reward them.

5. Step up the distance you walk, bring in some turns, and adjust your speed.

6. If your dog moves ahead of you, lure them back to you with a treat and simply continue.

7. Try in different rooms and in the backyard – but keep it fun and engaging and offer plenty of treats and praise for positive reinforcement.

Tips for introducing a leash and harness

1. Ease your puppy in and let them sniff and explore the harness first.

2. Use treats to encourage them to place their head through, offer more treats and praise, and then remove the harness.

3. Gradually increase the amount of time they wear the harness, with plenty of treats to hand, and when they’re comfortable attach a lightweight leash.

4. When they’re used to the leash, you can repeat the steps above while they’re wearing it.

Remember, too, that walking a puppy can be frustrating. They might get excited and pull on their leash.

“In these moments, be consistent,” says Dr. McCormack. “Stop, use your voice to call them back, reward them, and continue walking. It takes two to pull, and once you develop this habit, it can be hard to break.”

For more advice, here are the most common loose leash walking mistakes (and how to fix them). Find information on the types of dog leashes available here, too.

Did you bring home a new puppy during the COVID-19 pandemic? The pandemic led to a worldwide increase in puppy purchasing, so if you did buy or adopt one at the time, you’re not alone.

Most of the puppies who found a new home during the pandemic are still enjoying happy lives with their humans full of the best dog toys and treats, but the increase in puppies bought did lead to welfare concerns for these dogs due to the potential for impulsive purchases and increased production of puppies from poorer welfare sources.

These concerns, combined with restricted early-life experiences and socialization – understandable in the context of the pandemic – were feared to lead to problem behaviors that would weaken the relationships between dogs and their parents, and increase the likelihood of more parents giving their dogs up.

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has been studying these dogs for some time, and new research has brought to light the negative impact of problem behaviors in young adult dogs on the strength of the relationship between canine and human.

The RVC’s findings could help support interventions intended to support the parents of dogs with problem behaviors, improving their relationships with their dogs, making the dogs themselves happier, and preventing relinquishment or even euthanasia.

This study included data from 794 dog parents, part of the wider ‘Pandemic Puppies’ research, who shared information when their dogs reached 21 months of age. It looked at the amounts of companionship, attachment, and love felt by parents toward their dogs, as well as how burdened they felt by dog ownership – in terms of factors like time, emotion, effort, and financial cost.

The study found that parents reporting problem behaviors found dog ownership to have a higher burden, with those reporting multiple types of aggression showed by their dog feeling less emotionally close to them.

Meanwhile, dog parents using more positive reinforcement felt more emotionally close to their dogs than parents who used punishment-based methods. And, those who bought puppies specifically because of the pandemic considered them a higher burden than those who’d already been planning to get a puppy before the pandemic began.

Dr. Bree Merritt, PhD student at the RVC and the study’s lead author, said: “These results show how important it is to find evidence-based help for problem behavior to improve the emotional health of dogs, their owners and sustain their relationship. Owners who are struggling with problem behavior in their dog should contact their vet who can look for any underlying physical problems, and refer them to an accredited behaviorist.”

Dr. Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Scientist at the RVC, and senior author of the study, explained that while there have been campaigns in the UK to encourage prospective parents to consider their ability to care for a dog over the pup’s entire life, greater interventions might be needed.

“As seen in some European countries,” she added, “This could include compulsory courses as a deterrent to impulsive and uninformed acquisitions, which could also act as a vehicle to increase awareness of the legal obligations of dog ownership.”

Are you thinking about welcoming a new puppy yourself? Here’s what to know about taking a puppy home for the first time. If you’re considering adoption, meanwhile, you might find this article from a fellow dog parent interesting: My rescue dog helped me reconnect with people after the pandemic, here's how.

Thinking about getting a dog? You may never again eat a snack in peace or have a clean floor ever again! Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or adding another furry friend to your household, there’s a lot more to owning a dog than many might think. From the daily walks and vet bills to the unexpected messes and endless cuddles (not such a hardship), the experience is full of surprises – both rewarding and challenging. While dogs bring joy and companionship into our lives, it’s important to know what you’re signing up for before bringing one home.

From a lifetime’s experience of owning dogs and striving to be the best dog owner I can, I’ve put together a list of all the things I wish I knew before getting one, blending serious advice with a few lighthearted truths. From the mundanities of training and grooming to the fun quirks that make owning a dog so special, it pays to be prepared for the adventures ahead.

Then bring on the tail wags, fur-covered couches, and moments of pure joy – plus check out our tips on being a first-time dog owner.

32 things to know before getting a dog

1. Be prepared to give them a lot of time

If you’re asking how much time it takes to look after a dog, you’re probably not in the right market. Quite apart from it varying from day to day according to their age, needs, health, and so on, a dog is part of your life. The question is akin to asking how much time it takes to look after a child! It’s not like looking after a goldfish where you can more easily compartmentalise their husbandry.

Factor in around one to two hours of dedicated exercise, plus feeding, grooming (demands depend on the dog’s coat), cleaning, and playing. A puppy requires even more attention than an older dog due to toilet training, socializing, puppy classes, and other rites of passage.

2. You’ll never eat a snack in peace again

Your days of surreptitious snacking will be over the moment a dog crosses your threshold. With their extra-sensitive noses, you can’t hide behind a door for a guilty titbit, and if you sit in plain sight chomping away, we can guarantee their covetous eyes will be watching longingly every time a morsel enters your mouth.

3. The expenses mount up

You can read articles that estimate how much it costs to own a dog. However, with pets, there are always situations. That unexpected extra vet bill (we recommend investing in some of the best pet insurance to help offset the costs), an extremely expensive but entirely essential paw-pad balm he suddenly requires, the new bed to replace the one he chewed to pieces... the list goes on.

4. Dog hair – everywhere

The amount of hair festooned around your house and furnishings depends on the dog, but unless you go for one of the breeds that hardly shed, there’s going to be more hair than you could ever have expected. You’ll find it everywhere: on the couch, the carpets, the floor, your clothes... You’ll need to invest in one of the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair, and to use it regularly.

5. They don’t come house-trained

Potty training your dog needs commitment. While puppies tend to leave their birth homes at around eight to 12 weeks, it’s likely to be four to six months before they are reliably house-trained. In this period – which can seem to last a very long time – you can expect accidents in the home, on the white carpet, or even on the couch. And you’ll be getting up far earlier than you might want to, just to give your puppy every chance of doing his business outside and not in.

6. Your home will never be clean again

Dogs don’t know how to wipe their feet – at least not consciously. Unless you manage to stick to pristine walkways for your daily walks or are extremely conscientious about never letting your dog out and then in without a thorough wash, you are going to have mud in the house. Change your carpets to dark ones with minimal pile – or better still, install wooden or laminate flooring.

7. They need socialization

You thought your company was everything your new pup needed, right? Wrong. Dogs need socialization in their first few months of life – both with people and other dogs – to give them the best chance of growing up calm, relaxed, and confident. It sets them up for success as they integrate into the world. It can prevent them from being fearful or anxious, introduce them to sights, smells, and sounds to which they need to become familiar and reduce their likelihood of being aggressive later on.

8. You’ll schedule your life round their needs

You’ll develop some strange new excuses once you have a dog in your home. “I can’t stay long as Tigger needs his tea”, or find you plan your vacation to places you would never have previously looked at, on account of being able to take pets. No more spontaneous city breaks or sleepovers – the dog rules your diary.

9. They can have destructive tendencies

Destructive behavior is one of the most commonly reported problems. Unfortunately, it’s often an offshoot of anxiety, boredom, or a need to let off pent-up energy. There may be phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, separation anxiety, or simple frustration underlying the destructive tendencies. Besides ruling out any medical issues, keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated is essential.

10. You need a yard like Fort Knox

You may need to reconsider your fencing completely. Some dogs dig, some jump, and others simply wriggle through a suitable hole, but many will try to find a way out to explore the big wide world beyond the confines of their backyard.

11. Not all dogs are the same

The fact that there is such a variety of dog breeds is both a blessing and a challenge. You can choose whether you want longhaired dog breeds or shorthaired dog breeds, large or small, yappy or quiet. But while different breeds tend to have vaguely similar traits – some are typically more friendly or aloof – every individual has their own character. Don’t expect because you know one Labrador you know them all.

12. Your social media account will be all dog

Before you have a dog, your Instagram grid might be a variety show of vacation snaps, tasty breakfasts, and funny memes. Once the dog arrives, it is extremely likely to monopolize all posts. In fact, you might as well get the dog its own dedicated account showing off the best pet poses for social media – or your followers might desert you if canine obsession isn’t their bag.

13. They’ll eat your shoes

Dogs seem to have a penchant for shoes. In fact they like pinching many of your personal items, so keep an eye on your socks too. But the reason for this is really rather endearing. They love the scent of their owners – and this is particularly strong on a shoe or a sock – so it’s like having a part of you with them. An added bonus, from the canine perspective, is that by stealing your shoes they prevent you from going out without them.

14. They can get anxious

Dogs are great for soothing anxiety in humans – they decrease our stress levels and improve our heart health. However, we’re not the only ones that can suffer from anxiety. Dogs also can get anxious and stressed, often due to past trauma or experience. Many are prone to separation anxiety – it may be worth reading up on how to reduce separation anxiety in dogs. Just because they can’t talk or cry doesn’t mean there isn’t a whole world of emotions going on behind those beguiling eyes.

15. They hate fireworks

Loud and sudden noises, such as fireworks – or thunderstorms – can be very alarming for our pooches and cause anxiety. This can come as a surprise to humans, given that your average pet dog does not have the trauma of bomb raids or being hit by lightning to cause painful associations. But dogs have exceptional hearing, and the unpredictable bangs and flashes can trigger their fight-or-flight response.

16. You’ll lose your individual identity

There quickly becomes a time in a well-bonded canine-human relationship when you start to refer to yourself as “we” – because it’s unthinkable that you’d be doing anything without your dog. Before you owned a dog, you would have dismissed the idea of identifying as such a couple as ridiculous, but they quickly have you under their spell and your individual identity evaporates.

17. Dogs can be noisy

Like babies, dogs can be noisy and there’s not always a lot you can do about it. Some breeds are much more prone to being noisy – they howl, whine, and even bay (foxhounds, we’re looking at you) – though there are ways to encourage dogs to stop excessive barking.

And then there are the snorers and the snufflers (bulldogs, hello!) – so whatever breed you pick, be prepared it’s unlikely to be a peaceful ride.

18. You’re in it for the long haul

How long do dogs live? Dogs live for around 12 years, on average. While no pet is ideal as a taster to see if caring for an animal is right for you, a dog is more certainly not. They don’t relish being passed from home to home, and if you cannot look after a pet for its full life – in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, and so on – then it’s not a suitable journey for you to embark upon.

For most dog owners, however, the only snag with a dog is that their “lives are too short, their only fault really” – said American writer Agnes Sligh Turnbull.

19. You need to be impervious to all weathers

There is no such thing as fair-weather dog ownership. Most dogs are oblivious to wet, wild, and windy weather, relishing a trip outdoors whatever the climate throws at us. Of course, you need to be careful when temperatures get dangerously hot, but at the other end of the scale, if it’s just a downpour, get your coat on for your dog’s daily walkies, and enjoy the elements.

20. They’ll steal your food

You can – and should – train your dog not to steal food from the table, but when your back is turned it’s sometimes just irresistible. Particularly for taller dogs, such as wolfhounds, food is often set out at a tempting nose height, and they can surreptitiously graze from the platters as they pass. No one needs to know, do they?

21. Some human foods are toxic to dogs

You might envisage scraping the leftovers from your dinner for the dog to guzzle on, leaving no wastage and clean plates. However, it’s not so simple. There are many foods that dogs should never eat, including many that are well tolerated by humans. Unfortunately, simple and ubiquitous ingredients such as garlic, onion, and chocolate can make your dog very sick. Moral of the story? Don’t share your food!

22. They need plenty of mental stimulation

Walkies are synonymous with dogs, everyone knows that. But the idea that a pooch might need his brain challenged is not as commonplace. Dogs can easily be frustrated or bored, but tend to flourish when they are given some of the best dog puzzle toys to work out, and challenges to stimulate the mind. The result is typically a more contented dog who is less prone to anxiety and destructive tendencies – plus it builds the human-canine bond.

23. Daily exercise is a must

How much daily exercise a dog needs depends largely on its breed and age. Puppies and toy dogs need comparatively little, but a big, strapping breed in full health and designed to work – such as a pointer or a collie – may need at least two hours of vigorous exercise a day. It’s well worth investigating as if you’re keen on lots of exercising, there are many breeds made for running. And these are worth steering clear of if your idea of a walk is a quick circuit of a city park.

24. They aren’t independent pets

Some dogs are more reserved and less needy than others, but overall dogs are not independent pets. Unlike some cats, who give the impression that your presence is barely needed, dogs require attention. They need walking, grooming, mental stimulation, feeding, and company – so they aren’t the right pet for those who are out of the home a lot either during the day or for longer trips.

25. You may need a professional trainer

Many of us have this idea that our puppy will grow up into a wonderfully biddable and attentive adult dog, but this level of trainability doesn’t always come naturally – either to the dog or especially to a first-time owner. Don’t see it as a failure if you have to seek professional help – it should reap rewards in the long run.

26. Some friends won’t love your dog

You are bound to be devoted to your new pup – a delightful little bundle of fluff that you have personally chosen, researched, and become besotted with. However, you cannot expect your friends to have the same levels of attachment. Some friends may dislike dogs, they may be allergic to dogs or have had a bad past experience.

Go gently as you work out whether your friends are chilled out about the new addition to your household, and don’t bore them with endless puppy tales – it would be a shame to ruin a friendship this way.

27. Allergy triggers

Dogs can trigger allergies that people didn’t even know they had. Some allergic individuals actually tolerate some dogs better than others – depending on the amount and type of allergen produced.

Contrary to popular opinions, this is not always tied to specific breeds, although as a general rule low-shedding dogs such as poodles and other hypoallergenic dog breeds tend to release less dander than others, and therefore are less likely to set off sneezing fits.

28. Dogs can have allergies, too

Unfortunately, dogs can be allergic to many things – including even other dogs! Common allergens in dogs include food (chicken, beef, wheat, lamb, and so on), pollen, dust mites, grass, and fleas. Their symptoms may be scratching, licking, rubbing, swollen skin and hotspots, hair loss, gastrointestinal upsets and infections.

29. Travel is complex

In your pre-dog era, you could pretty much travel when and where you wanted without a care in the world. Post-dog, options are much more limited. Accommodation needs to be pet-friendly, traveling on public transport is complex, and flying even more so. For dogs living in the UK, simply traveling to mainland Europe requires a stash of paperwork, rabies jabs, and vet checks. Plus their kit – dogs often don’t travel light.

30. Your garden may never be the same again

Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, especially if you have a terrier, who has been bred over generations to do so. It can be a source of great joy, stimulation, and exercise, but can become a nuisance when they dig up your prize delphiniums, and potentially dangerous when they burrow an escape route under the boundary fence.

31. They may not get along with other pets

In movies, animals often get along with one another in a state of perfect harmony, even falling in love – but the reality is more delicate. New dogs should always be introduced to the resident pets very carefully and under supervision. And don’t forget that many dogs are natural hunters and small pets may be just too tempting as prey.

32. Their grooming needs

There are some breeds that are as good as wipe-clean, such Vizslas and Weimaraners, but most dogs have longer fur that benefits from regular grooming, be it daily or weekly. The longhaired dog breeds might be stunners, but before you succumb to the beauty of their locks, ask yourself whether you really have hours to spare with a brush as looking that good takes a lot of effort.

Still thinking a dog is right for you? Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking about adopting a dog vs buying from a breeder and here are the best things about owning a dog

For many of our dogs, a walk is the most exciting part of the day. When it’s time to head outside, you might find that your dog is pretty overstimulated or hyperactive, and this is understandable. However, it can be a lot to handle if you’d rather a relaxing walk.

One thing you might decide to try is to put in place a sniffing routine before you leave for your walk, with plenty of the best dog treats involved, of course! Dogs like to sniff – it calms them and helps them make sense of their world – so a sniffing routine before a walk can help make them more relaxed for the walk itself.

But how do you get started? Well, Ella Camps-Linney and Alistair Mackenzie, professional trainers and the owners of Kirby Dog Training, have explained all we need to know in a new Instagram post. Let’s take a look.

“A sniffing routine pre-walk can ground them in the moment, creating a more balanced transition from rest to activity,” explain Camps-Linney and Mackenzie.

“Sniffing stimulates your dog’s brain, releases feel-good dopamine, and lowers stress hormones like cortisol,” they add in their caption. “It helps them focus, self-soothe, and transition smoothly from rest to activity.”

So, here’s how to easily add some pre-walk sniffing to you and your pup’s routine, according to the experts:

1. Set up a sniffing station: Simply scatter treats or hide a toy in a small area, either inside the house or outside, maybe in the yard. Let your dog explore at a pace they’re comfortable with – perhaps while you get yourself ready for the walk!
2. Try scentwork: Hide treats in a towel or use one of the best puzzle toys for dogs to engage their nose and give them plenty of mental stimulation too. In a pinch, you can even get an old cardboard tube, put treats in it, close both ends, and puncture some treat-size holes in there.
3. Give your dog free sniffing time: Just let them sniff around the yard before you leave for the walk. Be mindful not to rush them if time allows.

If you’d like to know more about how sniffing can help, you might find this article interesting: I tried a 45-minute 'sniffari', and it tired out my border collie more than a two-hour hike! And, for more great games to engage in with your pup, why not try these eight fun games to play with dogs?

One of the best things about being a puppy parent is being able to play with them! While we can’t spend every waking moment playing with our pups, those times when we can will often be the highlight of our day.

As well as being so much fun, playing with the best puppy toys has all sorts of benefits for growing dogs, giving them lots of physical and mental stimulation. But how can you ensure your pup gets the most out of play? The experts at Happy Dogs Training, led by founder and owner Piper M Novick, have offered three all-important tips in a new Instagram post.

1. Let your puppy win: “By letting your puppy win, they will be more motivated to continue playing with you,” they explain. It’s sometimes thought that letting your puppy win is letting them dominate you, but this school of thinking is pretty outdated if you want to learn how to play with a puppy.

Rather, it helps build a rapport between the two of you and teaches them that engaging in play with you is fun and rewarding – what could be more ideal?

2. Use a verbal and physical cue: When you invite your puppy to play tug, you’re giving them autonomy. They have the freedom to opt into the game in the first place, and decide when the game is over. 

Cues can help them learn rules and boundaries, too. Show your dog the toy and use a cue. Let them play with the toy – maybe a game of tug – and give them another cue before you drop it. When they have the toy, get them to drop or exchange it by showing them another toy. Before you let them play with the original toy again, ask them to ‘sit’ or go ‘down’, only breaking their position when you say the cue word again. 

3. Switch toys: “Toy switching teaches your puppy to alternate between reinforcers, and will be an invaluable skill in the future,” the trainers explain. Dogs often play ‘keep away’, which can occur when we try to grab the toy, and the dog runs away. The dog will often come to enjoy this game, but it’s not as fun for us! 

Toy switching allows you to get the toy back, but will keep things fun for your pup, too, so you’ll both be happy.

The trainers also offer a bonus tip, recommending that we take turns with our pups if we have more than one, or it’s a doggy play date. “Start teaching your puppy early that they can relax and wait while you work with another dog,” they say. 

For more play inspiration, why not check out these eight great games for puppies that will keep them entertained for hours?

If you’re preparing your new dog for their first walk, you might be wondering how to positively get a harness on puppy. As a certified animal behaviorist, I know how important it is to start your puppy off on the right paw when it comes to any new experiences - from training, daily routines, new friends, and - in this case - new equipment.

Before you take your dog out into the world, once they’re old enough to explore your neighborhood, it’s important to master putting on their harness. The harness will keep your dog safe and secure on walks, as well as hopefully being a much more comfortable alternative to a collar once they’ve got used to it.

Doing anything that requires stillness with a puppy can be tricky. They’re naturally wriggly, curious, playful, and when overwhelmed, a little nippy!

It’s not just about strapping on the best dog harness - it’s about building positive associations and making sure the fit is just right for your growing pup. In this guide, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to help you and your puppy feel confident and calm during this important part of your walking preparation.

How to put a harness on a puppy

To ensure a positive experience for all, I’ve put together a step-by-step guide for you to follow alongside your dog to get the best outcome together.

Choose your harness wisely

Your puppy is likely going to grow quite quickly, so while you won’t want to spend a fortune on a harness they might grow out of in a few weeks, make sure you’re still looking for the most comfortable option. A ‘Y-shaped’ harness where the neck joins the tummy piece with a strap down the middle of the chest is the best option to go for.

Avoid any harnesses where the front piece goes across the shoulders and chest, limiting your puppy's movements on walks. It’s also worth finding a brand that has multiple adjustment points. This means you can put your dog’s harness on without having to slide it over their head, and adjust it as your dog grows. Read up on how to measure a dog for a harness or seek the help of a local pet store for guidance.

Create a positive association with the harness

Many dogs run away at the sight of their harness and this is usually a sign that they’re not comfortable with how it’s being put on. If you rush the process with your young puppy, you could set them up for a lifetime of ‘harness hating’ so start slowing and build up a positive association with the harness. Let’s dive into the process of how to put a dog harness on but remember to take this slow. Take a week or so over the following stages, while you’re waiting for your puppy to be old enough to head out for walks.

1. Show your dog the harness and feed them the best dog treat. This is as simple as lifting the harness up in front of them and tossing a treat for them to chase. You can also try placing the harness on the floor and scatter treats around it for them to sniff out and enjoy.

2. If your harness has multiple adjustment points with clips, then you may be able to take just the back piece off to use on your dog’s body. Place this piece on your puppy’s back (or just lay the whole harness across if you can’t take it apart) and feed your dog a few treats. Build up the time it can sit on your dog’s back slowly.

3. Clip and unclip the straps while playing with your dog or feeding them a yummy bit of food on a lick mat or snufflemat. This allows them to get used to the sound of those clips clicking together.

4. Finally, try placing the whole harness on your puppy and doing up the straps. It’s best to do this while you are at your dog’s level rather than looming over them standing up. Ask your pup to hop up onto a sofa or step if they’re able. You could also place them gently onto a raised and non-slippery surface. Kneel down to their level and scatter a few treats on the floor for them to enjoy while you pop the harness onto their body.

5. Play a quick little game or flick some treats around for your dog to chase while they’re wearing the harness to encourage movement in it and to distract them from the new sensation of wearing it.

6. Remove the harness after a minute or two. Keep these early harness-wearing sessions short and sweet to avoid overwhelm.

7. When you first head out for a walk with your dog in their harness, let them take their time. Encourage movement forward by scattering treats on the floor. Avoid any dragging on the lead and if they appear overwhelmed at any time, then start your journey home. Remember that puppy walks need to be kept short not only due to physical stress on the body but also due to all the stimulation they will experience which can cause them to feel emotionally stressed.

Should you put a harness on a puppy?

You might question whether a harness is the right choice for your puppy or are harnesses bad for dogs. As a behaviorist working with dogs for over a decade, I will always advocate for a puppy to be walking on a harness as opposed to a collar. A harness - when fitted correctly - is going to allow your dog to move naturally, to express their body language more easily, and will spread out any pressure that may occur should they pull on the leash.

It is important to consider some safety aspects. You might, for example, wonder is it safe to leave a harness on a dog all the time? And that definitely is one aspect of harness safety we need to address.

A puppy should only wear their harness when walking outside of your home. Indoors, remove their harness on return from a walk to ensure they’re both comfortable and able to rest well, but also that they can’t get caught on anything within your home. If your puppy is likely to play boisterously with other dogs on walks, then it’s also advisable to remove their harness during play sessions. Keep a collar on them with their ID tag showing, but remove the harness that could get limbs caught in during playtime.

Which harnesses are best for puppies?

There are many types of dog harnesses and not all are equal in both quality or suitability for walking your puppy. While your dog is small, you don’t want to have anything too bulky on their bodies. A simple fleece-lined harness is a good choice. Opt for a harness that has a Y=-shape at the front, instead of one that goes across the shoulder which could impact movement. Here's the difference between a front-clip vs back-clip harness.

A harness that has two D-ring areas for connecting a double-ended training lead can provide you with options for control in the future, but it’s best to avoid attaching the lead to your dog’s chest all the time as this can mean they’re constantly turning their body to the side while walking.

As a new puppy parent, you might be wondering why your dog hates their harness - well we have all the answers! We can also help you explore in more detail how to use a harness on a dog to help you get this important leash-walking skill right.

Training a puppy can be difficult – there’s no two ways about it.

It’s likely to be one of the most stressful things you do, but of course one of the most rewarding, too. It can be difficult to know if you’re getting things right when it comes to training – for some things, it can be down to your own personal preference and also your dog’s personality, but for others, there are rights and wrongs, and there are some common mistakes that puppy parents often make.

Fortunately, these mistakes aren’t too difficult to rectify (and we’re sure your pup will forgive you after a session of play with one of the best puppy toys!), as Amelia Steele, a professional dog trainer and behavioral consultant known as Amelia the Dog Trainer, has explained on Instagram. We’ll take a look at the mistakes below.

1) Trying to do too much too fast: “Puppies learn best when you do short bursts, training throughout the day. One to two minutes at a time is plenty,” Steele explains.

You might be tempted to opt for longer training sessions – it’s only natural that we’d assume that more is better – but this can actually hold puppies back, and build frustration between the two of you. It’s worth prioritizing quality over quantity – it’ll pay off!

2) Using only food: While Steele will use food when training puppies, she uses play, too. “By switching back and forth between play and food,” she says, “you help teach your puppy to regulate their nervous system.”

3) Only focusing on behaviors: “Teaching sit, stay, etc. is great, but it’s not the only part of training,” Steele explains. “Socialization HAS to be a priority for puppies.”

Socialization is vital if you want your puppy to become a confident and friendly adult dog – putting in some hard work now will pay off for you in the long term. You might find this article useful, too: I'm a dog behaviorist and these are my 6 tips for socializing a puppy.

If you recognize any of these mistakes in things you’ve done before, it’s important to remember that no pet parent is perfect, and even the most experienced trainer can get things wrong on occasion!

There’s no time like the present to make changes to the way you train your puppy – it’s never too late. After all, we know that the saying ‘You can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ isn’t actually true – and puppies are even more flexible than their senior counterparts.

If it’s just you training your puppy, you might like to take a look at these 27 practical tips for training your dog on your own, too!

Raising a puppy can be incredibly fun and rewarding, but it’s not always easy and there can be ups and downs. 

You might find it hard to know if you’re doing things right, or if you’re making any mistakes – of course, no one is perfect, and every puppy parent will make a mistake somewhere along the line – even if you provide your pup with all of the best puppy toys and treats!

However, there are some key things to remember to help you bring up your puppy and raise them into a happy, healthy dog. Amelia Steele, a professional dog trainer and behavioral consultant known as Amelia the Dog Trainer, has offered up her top five tips for raising a puppy in a new Instagram post. 

1. Manage their environment: “One of the biggest mistakes people make with their puppies is giving them too much space, too early on,” says Steele. She explains that giving your pup too much space can make it more difficult to toilet train them (here’s how to potty train a puppy!) but also pose safety risks, so it’s best to give them access to one room at a time and use a playpen or crate when you can’t supervise them.

2. Ensure appropriate rest: Steele says that a lack of rest is the biggest cause of undesirable behaviors in puppies. Puppies aren’t great at regulation themselves either, so a clear routine is best – they need 18-20 hours of rest per day, ideally.

3. Focus on what you do want: It’s easy to focus on the negatives, telling your puppy ‘no’ a lot, but Steele recommends remembering why puppies behave the way they do. “If we truly want to set them up to be successful, we want to focus on teaching our dogs what we do want them to do,” she says. Take a look at this advice on how to play with a puppy to keep things positive. 

4. Expect regressions: “Training is never linear,” explains Steele. “It can be frustrating when your puppy has an accident after weeks of toilet training, or starts biting again at six months old, but this is totally normal.” She recommends going back to basics if there’s any regression.

5. Prioritize socialization: Socialization as a puppy is vital. The sensitive phase puppies go through can last until they’re up to around 16 weeks old, so it’s important to expose them to as many experiences as you can in this short period. Even if your pup isn’t fully vaccinated, it’s safe for you to carry them around.

If you’re getting a puppy soon, or thinking about it, why not take a look at these 32 facts about puppies? And, for socialization, you might find this article useful: I'm a dog behaviorist and these are my 6 tips for socializing a puppy.

Getting a new puppy is always exciting and full of fun, but there’s a lot to think about at the same time.

There are lots of things to buy (including some of the best puppy toys, of course!) as well as things to consider when it comes to training your new arrival. But, what sort of things should you focus on first when you get your new pup?

Well, in a recent Instagram post, the expert trainers at Happy Dogs Training – led by founder and owner Piper M Novick – have offered some valuable advice.

According to the trainers, the first things that you should teach your pup are confidence and courage. However, they say, “There’s a formula for this. Only put your puppy in situations that will promote them feeling happy and secure.”

They advise exploring the world slowly – it’s fine to move at a pace your pup is comfortable with! “Your puppy doesn’t need to meet everyone and see everything,” they say, “Follow their lead and design their experiences to be peaceful.”

They continue, “Let them accomplishable hard things, and celebrate those wins! Don’t rush your puppy to grow up! They’re a baby, go slow.”

You can help boost your puppy’s confidence while you go about your day. Take walks, for example. Make walks more interesting by setting your dog simple challenges like climbing on rocks or short walls to make them more confident and test them both physically and mentally.

And remember, you don’t need to dominate your new puppy or ‘show them who’s boss’. This mindset is outdated, and won’t help your dog develop that valuable confidence and courage that’ll make them a happier canine. Instead, give them plenty of rewards and use positive reinforcement wherever possible – remember, training dogs with treats can be really fruitful.

You can still put gentle boundaries in place, but being too harsh is counter-productive. Here’s the science behind positive reinforcement for dogs.

You can introduce them to a variety of settings, too, even before they’re fully vaccinated. You can always carry or drive them to different places! And, ensure that your puppy has the choice of whether to investigate new things or meet new people or not.

If you’re also looking for advice on socializing your puppy, you might find the following article insightful: I'm a dog behaviorist and these are my six tips for socializing a puppy.

Dogs explore the world through their nose and mouth, and it’s totally normal for puppies to bite and mouth.

However, we don’t tend to enjoy it when our puppies bite us, and it makes sense to nip any biting in the bud before they get bigger – for the safety of both your pup and the people around them!

We don’t want to be too harsh and punish our puppies for biting us when playing with one of the best dog toys, as they don’t realize they’re doing anything wrong. So, how can we prevent them from biting?

Well, certified dog trainer Melissa Goodman of Mission Pawsitive has offered some advice in a recent Instagram post, and it’s well worth taking on board – whether you currently have a puppy or not.

If you want to know how to stop a puppy biting, mouthing or nipping, you’re in the right place! In her video, Goodman is playing tug-of-war with a nine-week-old puppy. “This puppy let go of the toy and my leg just happened to be right there,” she says, “I don’t get upset. I just get her back on the appropriate option, and move on.”

If it keeps happening, Goodman recommends ending the game and doing something else – your puppy might be overstimulated. As she says in the caption, a puppy biting you isn’t trying to be mean. They’re simply playing a game, and your leg – or another body part – is right there.

If you have an older dog, and they come off toys during games to put their mouth on you, you might be asking questions like, ‘Why is my dog play biting me?’

Even if your dog is an adult, biting still likely means that they’re overstimulated. So, give your dog some time by themselves to calm down, or try a less intense activity with them.

As Goodman says, “If you get upset at them, or try to punish, most often that just adds frustration.” This can often make the mouthing and biting worse, because they’re confused and don’t know what they should be doing instead.

Even the most well-behaved and well-socialized pup can bite now and again, so it’s not likely to be a major cause for concern. However, biting can occasionally indicate an underlying injury or health condition – dogs can sometimes react in an aggressive way during play if a movement they’re doing makes their discomfort work, simply as a way to communicate that they’re uncomfortable. So, if your pup suddenly begins to bite during play sessions when it’s not something they’ve done before, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.

If you’d like some more advice on biting, you might find this article useful: Vet shares top tips on how to train a puppy not to bite (and it's easier than you might think).

Potty training is something that most dog parents will have to do — unless, perhaps, you got a rescue dog as an adult. It’s not the most fun aspect of having a dog, but it’s a necessity. 

Your pup just wants to do their business so they can get back to playing with the best dog toys, but for us, there are all sorts of things to consider when it comes to potty training your pup. 

One thing to think about that often might not occur to us is getting our dogs used to going to the toilet on various different surfaces. Certified dog trainer Melissa Goodman of Mission Pawsitive (with some help from her own dog, Aspen) has explained why this is a good idea in a new Instagram post. 

Even if you have an adult dog who’s potty trained, they may still run into challenges from time to time. So, whether this is your first time wondering how to potty train a puppy or you’ve worked with a number of dogs before, it’s worth keeping this in mind.

Goodman uses the example of Aspen, who’s not accustomed to snow — she explains that while she loves playing in the snow, sinking into it threw her off when it was time to go to the toilet.

“If your dog is used to only going to the bathroom in specific places, that can be really challenging if you are somewhere new and that specific option isn’t available to your dog,” Goodman explains.

At first, Aspen found sheltered places that were protected from the snow, and areas where vehicles had moved over the snow, causing it to melt. Later, she became more comfortable going in the snow, but it took her some time to adjust. As Goodman says about our pups, “It’s normal if they struggle or regress temporarily.” It’s natural that it may cause a little stress or anxiety in dogs — it’s an unfamiliar situation.

She continues, “If you have a puppy that you are potty training or you have an adult dog that is slightly more particular about where they like to go to the bathroom, try to expand their horizon as much as you can in that department to make it easier on them when in situations like this.”

You might find that your dog will struggle with going to the bathroom in the rain, too, They might look for dry surfaces at first, before gradually becoming more used to the idea of going in the rain.

If your dog is struggling, remember to give them plenty of support and encouragement. It probably goes without saying, but even if your dog does regress slightly, punishment isn’t the answer — positive reinforcement works best here.

Raising a puppy is hard work. There are lots of challenges that go hand-in-hand with getting a new fur baby - and crying in the night is one of them. If you're a first-time puppy owner, then you probably have a lot of questions about the best way to handle this behavior. 

When you’ve given your dog the best puppy toys, a comfortable bed, and nutritious food, it can be confusing as to why they’re crying. If you're feeling a little lost (and exhausted from the lack of sleep), you can rest assured that this is a common problem that most puppy owners face. 

Since dogs don't speak the same language as us, it can be difficult to work out how to stop your puppy crying at night, but we've got the answers you need. Feeding them several hours before bed or playing music are two great solutions for this. 

Whilst there are lots of helpful tips out there, there's one thing that you should never do. Lisa Burton, an award-winning dog trainer, revealed what this is and why you should avoid doing it in her latest Instagram post. 

Don't worry if you've done this in the past; training a dog is a learning curve and you're bound to get things wrong at some point. There's always time to change and improve:

Lisa says you should never leave your puppy to cry in the night, and there are a few reasons why. Before we dive into those reasons, it's important to have a brief understanding about how a dog's brain works - in particular, the amygdala, the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. 

Here's how Lisa explains them:

The amygdala: This is "responsible for your dog's primal survival responses: fear conditioning, emotional memory and their automatic responses. Think of it as their fight or flight response when they're stressed."

The hippocampus: This part of the brain helps to regulate the stress response and is "involved in long-term memory formation, conscious recollection and learning."

The prefrontal cortex: This also regulates the stress response, and is "implicated in planning complex cognitive behavior, decision making, and social behavior moderation".

Lisa explains that when your pup is exposed to stressful situations (like being left alone to cry), the amygdala gets bigger. So, what does this mean for them? It causes "long-term exaggerated responses to triggers it perceives as threats".

At the same time, the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex (the stress regulators) will get smaller. In other words, your dog will find it harder to learn and respond to stress.

Lisa explains that puppies are already sensitive to stress and that leaving a dog to cry "turns up the volume on their reactive stress response" and "limits their ability to self-regulate".

She continues: "Chronic stress exposure changes the dog's brain in ways that are likely to cause long-term issues with reactivity, anxiety, impulsivity, and obstructed learning ability.

"Whereas providing your dog with support [and] patience (the evidence of a strong affectional bond and a myriad of positive learning experiences) is scientifically your best foot forward when it comes to growing a calm, responsive and balanced adult dog that can cope with whatever life throws his way."

You might also find these features helpful: How to stop your puppy crying in crate and how to get a puppy to sleep through the night.

Bringing home a puppy is one of the best feelings in the world. Although it comes with its challenges, starting your journey as a pet parent is such an exciting time. 

There's lots to think about when getting a new pooch - like choosing the best puppy toys, high-quality food, and a cozy bed. You'll also want to start looking into a good training routine to set them up with the skills they need in life.

Training a puppy is no easy feat - it requires time, patience, and consistency (as well as the best dog treats to hand). If you're a first-time puppy owner, then you might feel a little overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. We're here to tell you that it's completely normal to feel this way.

If you can relate to this (or just want to brush up on your training techniques), Lisa Burton, an expert dog trainer, has shared some brilliant advice. She's broken it down into four simple steps to help you with your training:

1. Understand their developmental stages

Before you get started on your training journey, it's a good idea to learn about the different developmental stages of your dog. If you understand their needs, you'll be able to adapt your approach to suit them better. This will make things easier for both of you. If you're not sure what the different stages are, follow Lisa's easy guide.

• "3-12 weeks: Critical socialization period - prioritize novel experiences
• 3-6 months: Juvenile period - prioritize manners and essential behaviors
• 6/12-8/12 months: Adolescence - prioritize relationship and revisiting previous learning"

2. Learn effective training techniques

Lisa recommends finding the best techniques that work for you and your dog's training style. However, it's important to stick to positive reinforcement for dogs. This is when you reward your pup for good behavior, as opposed to punishing bad behavior. The latter has negative consequences on your pup's mental and physical health, as well as their long-term welfare. 

Lisa says: "There are plenty of training techniques out there: luring, shaping, and capturing are likely the three you'll come across when it comes to puppy training. Research how each works and decide the method that best suits your pup's learning style to optimize your success."

3. Consistency is key

When it comes to training, consistency, and predictability are two of the most important things to consider. Lisa explains how this makes your pup "feel secure and understand what is expected of them". That's why it's a good idea to put a structured daily routine in place - just like you would with human children.

Lisa says: "It's also a great way to ensure you meet all their needs for socialization, physical exercise, playtime, and relationship, feeding, and toileting, learning, and adequate rest. Putting a little effort into designing your pup's days at the beginning of your journey makes life a whole lot easier as he grows."

4. Look into advanced training and enrichment activities

Lisa says that if your pup has nailed the basics of training, it's worth looking into advanced training and enrichment activities. This will help them to progress in their development. She suggests trying agility, hoopers, rally, scent work, the best dog puzzle toys, and trick training. 

Lisa explains: [These] can help provide healthy and safe outlets for your growing dog's energy and curiosity to prevent behavioral issues developing."

For more puppy training content, check out these features: How to stop a puppy biting and how to train a puppy to walk on the leash.

When you have a new puppy, there are plenty of different things to teach them. With so many things to consider, it can be difficult to know where to begin!

And, of course, different dog parents will have different priorities, depending on your own preferences and your day-to-day life. For example, some dog parents like to teach their dogs not to go on the furniture early on, but others are more relaxed about pets on furniture, and may teach this later, or not at all. Some are more strict when it comes to handing out the best dog treats – others are more liberal with them, within moderation. We’re all different. 

Professional dog trainer and behavioral consultant Amelia Steele, or Amelia the Dog Trainer, has outlined the one all-important thing to teach your puppy first – it might be one that you don’t expect…

“Naturally, one of the first things I like to do with puppies is teach them to respond to their name,” Steele begins. “This can be really helpful in general. Obviously, we want them to know when we need their attention, but it’s also a really good skill to lay the foundations for recall training.”

Steele describes a game that she enjoys playing with puppies. It involves throwing a piece of food for your dog to go and find, Once your dog has found the piece of food, call their name, give a marker like ‘good boy’ or ‘good girl,’ and then give your dog a little piece of treat when they get back to you. 

Repeat this exercise – essentially, your dog will learn that good things will happen when they hear their name. If you’re not quite at this stage yet, and you’re still on the hunt for the perfect name for your pup, here are the 32 best dog and cat names.

Steele’s advice makes sense, as it’s important for your dog’s safety that you teach them their name sooner rather than later. It’s important that you can get your dog’s attention whenever you need it – it helps to keep them safe – and calling their name is a great way to do so, particularly if their name isn’t something that might get confused with other commands easily. 

If your dog’s recall isn’t brilliant, there’s no need to panic. Here are just three reasons why your dog’s recall isn’t reliable (and what you can do about it) – there are various potential reasons, but fortunately also lots of ways to address poor recall. 

For many of us, one of the best things about having pets is being able to play with them, and we often associate dogs in particular with play. 

But, dogs sometimes don’t play how we’d like them to. It might be that they get too excited and begin biting, or not engaging in a way that invites a fun play session for both dog and parent. And this can often happen when it comes to puppies, even if you’ve got one of the best dog toys on offer.

So, when you want to get your puppy to play with you nicely, how do you start? In a new Instagram post, Amelia Steele – or Amelia the Dog Trainer – explains what to do.

If you want to know how to play with a puppy, you’re in the right place! Steele begins by explaining that dogs, and puppies in particular, can get extremely hyped up by play, and it can exacerbate problems you might have like biting. So, she recommends teaching your dog how to redirect from something onto a toy, as well as simply how to play. 

She’s working with a puppy, Noodle, and trying to get him interested in a toy. “The key is I want to get it down really low,” she says, “As you can see, he’s going for my shoelaces instead so I’m going to keep this nice and interesting and I’m going to keep trying to engage him.”

According to Steele, people often give up when the dog stops being interested, but she aims to keep persevering to make the toy interesting to them. She moves the toy around and tries to get Noodle to tug on it, using the toy’s squeaker to keep him engaged. 

“And then, after a couple of seconds of play, I’m going to stop,” she says. “I’m going to grab a treat and I’m just going to reinforce something nice and easy – I’m going to do ‘sit’ with him because he knows ‘sit.’

By doing this, you’re taking a break from play and preventing it from escalating. She recommends alternating between play and training with treats, as it helps your dog get better at changing their mindset from wanting to play and being excited to being calmer. And, food calms the brain, so it’s a great idea to use food as a reward here. 

If you’d like to try out some more games with your puppy once you’ve tried Steele’s advice for a while, why not check out these eight great games for puppies that will keep them entertained for hours?

How you manage the first few weeks and months of socializing a puppy can make a difference in how your dog interacts with his world. 

Most puppies go to their new homes from eight to 12 weeks old, a critical age for when your puppy is more likely to become nervous about his environment. 

I find it helpful to remember that your puppy left his mother and siblings, the only world he has ever known. Suddenly, his world became a scary, unknown place despite your best efforts to make them feel at home with the likes of a nice bed and the best puppy toys. 

If a puppy misses early socialization, he can become fearful and anxious, which could lead to fear reactivity or aggression as an adult dog. The objective is to familiarize your pup with everything that might pop up in his environment and understand how to handle dog fear periods to give your pup the best start in life.

Here are my six tips for socializing a puppy and what to avoid too.

1. Consider interactions with people carefully

After your puppy has settled into the home, it's time to invite friends or family to meet him. Initially, introduce one or two people at a time so your pup doesn't feel overwhelmed by a large group. 

Allow your puppy to initiate contact and decide how much interaction he is comfortable with. If he holds back, avoid forcing him to socialize and let his natural curiosity kick in.

Most dog lovers want to hold and cuddle puppies, and although it is entirely understandable, too much handling can cause as many potential issues as not enough handling. Why? Well, for one thing, your Irish Wolfhound puppy might not be so cute trying to sit on people's laps when he is 176 lbs. 

Take your puppy out so he can observe people at a distance. Reward him with the best dog treats when he looks at people without reacting. Say "Yes" and give him a small treat. Keep sessions short, but aim to repeat a few times a week. 

2. Prepare for interaction with dogs and other animals

While introducing your puppy to the outside world, allow him to watch birds, squirrels, deer, and rabbits. If possible, introduce him to livestock such as cows, horses, and sheep. Ensure all introductions are calm, especially if you have a breed with a high prey drive. 

If you have a friend with a calm, friendly dog, allow your puppy to meet him in a controlled environment. A puppy playdate is ideal, as pups learn a lot from playing with each other. 

Ensure both pup's vaccinations are complete and monitor the play. The pups could become boisterous as excitement levels rise, so keep sessions short with periodic breaks. If you notice your puppy growling when playing, that doesn't always mean they are aggressive but keeping play sessions short can help you take time to identify the type of growl.

3. Expose your puppy to new experiences

To build your puppy's confidence, introduce him to new experiences daily. The following are a few ideas: 

• Take the puppy to open fields, parks, lakes, the sea, small towns, and coffee shops.
• Sit with your puppy somewhere with regular traffic so he can become used to cars.
• Introduce your pup to bicycles – ask a cyclist for help if you know a friend with a bike.

4. Introduce objects and noises

One of the most upsetting dog behaviors for an owner is a fear of loud noises, which becomes a nightmare when there's a thunderstorm. All of that is preventable with early noise association. 

We take for granted all the objects and noises in our environment, so become aware of familiarizing your pup with objects and noises, such as the following:

• Cars
• Bikes
• Vacuum
• Mirrors
• Doorbell
• Balloons
• Hairdryers
• Motorbikes
• Umbrellas
• Telephones
• Open and glass-fronted fires
• Music and musical instruments
• Washing machine and tumble drier
• Wheelie bins and refuse collection days
• Lawnmowers, strimmers and leaf blowers

When training pups, I find the best approach is not to make a fuss. If your puppy reacts to a noise, avoid comforting him because you inadvertently reward the negative response. 

A tip for gently exposing your puppy to noise is to select relevant YouTube videos. Start with the sound low and gradually increase the volume. You can do this while playing a fun game so your dog is distracted somewhat. It's a perfect solution for preparing your dog for thunderstorm noise. 

Very soon, your pup will sleep through anything. 

It's also important to get your dog used to walking on different surfaces, such as wood, concrete, grass, gravel, cobblestones, stairs, carpets and slippery floors, sand, mud, snow, and uneven surfaces. But be sure to read up on how far can a puppy walk so you're supporting their joint and muscle development.

5. Provide daily care and handling

As an ex-dog groomer, I found most dogs loathed having their feet handled, making nail clipping a stressful experience. 

A few times a day, gently handle your puppy's paws and touch his claws with a nail clipper. If your puppy is calm, say "yes" and give him a small treat.  

If you intend to use a nail grinder, get your puppy used to the sound of it before using it.

Practice opening the puppy's mouth and brushing their teeth with your finger or a small, soft brush.  

In addition, practice putting on a raincoat or fleece and booties if you intend to use them. 

It's also helpful to introduce your puppy to water, especially if he is a breed that needs regular grooming or is likely to be a mud wallower when he's older. 

Fill a small bowl with a few inches of water and stand your puppy in it. If your puppy remains calm, say "yes" and treat. After that, gently splash water on the pup's lower legs, ensuring he is happy with the interaction. 

Some dogs love water, and others loathe it, but the objective is to help prevent a fear of water. 

Finally, spend time each day massaging your puppy's entire body, including ears, tail, and paws. If he is small enough, pick him up and gently restrain him so he is comfortable being held. 

6. Prevent reactivity in the home

Some trainers suggest taking your puppy's food away to show you have control. However, this method can backfire and actually cause resource guarding, the very thing you're trying to prevent. 

A better approach is throwing food in your puppy's bowl, like a small piece of chicken. After the pup has eaten it, pick up the bowl, put another treat in it, and put it back on the floor. When your puppy has eaten the treat, pick up the bowl and repeat the exercise several times. 

This method teaches your puppy an association with you handling his bowl and getting something yummy from you. 

A confident puppy becomes a happy, well-adjusted dog, so take the time to help him develop confidence, and you can help prevent fear and reactivity in the future. 

Looking for more puppy content? Here's how to stop a puppy crying in a crate or find out how to tackle puppy food aggression.

Teaching your dog the ‘leave it’ command can come in extremely useful. Sometimes, it might simply help you avoid a mess, or your dog getting into something they shouldn’t be. But other times, it could even be the difference between your dog being safe and getting injured or hurt. 

But, how do you teach your puppy this command, and when can you start doing so? Dog trainer and behaviorist Louise Glazebrook has explained everything you need to know in a recent Instagram post so that you can help keep your pup safe with just a bit of dedicated training (and some of the best dog treats too!)

First, get some treats in one hand. And then hold them just out of your dog’s way. “When he looks away, he’ll be rewarded,” explains Glazebrook. At this point, you don’t need to worry about the ‘leave it’ cue itself – it’ll come. “You just need to teach them with something that’s quite boring – that when it’s there, they actually get rewarded for looking away from it, and then we can build on that,” she says.

Glazebrook explains in the caption that you need to make it a game, and then the rest will follow. 

Something else you can try, particularly when it comes to puppies, is ‘fair trade’. Often, young dogs will use their nose and mouth a lot, as they help them to make sense of their world and their environment. 

This is something you should encourage, but only when they’re doing so safely, and they aren’t investigating something that could be dangerous. So, rather than taking it from them, you offer them something better, or more desirable, in exchange. 

This way, if your puppy ever does get into something that might be harmful, you can quickly trade it for something else – they’ll be used to you offering them something better.

We think that ‘leave it’ is one of the five most important dog commands, because of how vital it can be in keeping our pups safe. It’s much more advisable to teach this command rather than removing things from your dog’s mouth by force – obviously, if this is the only option and you need to quickly remove something to keep them safe, that’s understandable – but doing this often can lead to guarding. 

So, why not start teaching your dog the ‘leave it’ cue with Glazebrook’s advice today? Show your dog that you’re not someone who just takes things from them – you’re someone who’ll offer them something desirable, like a treat, instead. 

If you’d like to start training this cue but you live alone, or it’ll be you doing the majority of the work, you might find this article useful: 25 practical tips for training your dog on your own.

So, you’ve got a new puppy, or you’re getting one soon...congratulations! 

The thought of bringing home a puppy for the first time is a super exciting one and no doubt your mind is racing a mile a minute thinking of everything you need to buy and in preparation for your little one's arrival.

You’ve made sure you’ve got everything you need (including some of the best puppy toys), you’ve briefed your children – if you have them – on how to behave around the new arrival, and you’ve read more books and websites on puppies than you thought even existed.

And then you bring your puppy home. It’s an intense time, and while it’s a positive one, it’s easy to feel stressed too. After all, you’re looking after a brand new living being, and whether you’re a canine novice or a seasoned dog parent, it’s not always going to be easy.

But fortunately, award-winning trainer Lisa Burton of Listen Dog Training is here to remind us of three important things to remember during the first week with a new puppy. Let’s delve into them.

1. Relationship: “Relationship is the foundation of all your future training,” Burton explains, “And the cement that holds together a life of joyful companionship.”

She recommends building your bond on trust, security, and positivity, as this will make developing skills like loose-leash walking and recall easier. And contrary to traditional views, you don’t need to ‘dominate’ your puppy, as you already control everything about your puppy’s life to begin with. 

Rather, “make yourself a provider of the good stuff and regularly hand feed him for the first week or so,” Burton advises. And, she emphasizes the importance of taking an active role in playtime, describing it as an “investment into your bond.” 

Reward every positive thing your pup does, too. Whether they’re going to the toilet outside, inspecting their crate, or just behaving well in an unfamiliar situation, give them a treat!

2. Gentle boundaries: Dogs are social animals, and aren’t used to being alone. But, of course, there will be times when they’ll need to be alone for a while. If you’re wondering how to crate train a dog, here’s what to do.

“Introduce your puppy to a crate from day one – make it the place that food, treats, and toys show up,” says Burton. Don’t close the door of the crate until your pup’s comfortable with it, either. Place the crate inside a puppy pen in the daytime so your pup can sleep soundly without feeling trapped.

At night, place the crate into your room with you, before gradually moving it out if you want to. And play lots of crate games so your pup’s confidence can grow. Burton explains, “By making boundaries normal from day one, you can begin to practice periods of separation in a controlled way, gradually increasing time and ensuring the experience remains rewarding.”

3. Positive pairing and confidence: This is all about socialization. Even before your pup is fully vaccinated, you can introduce them to a range of settings – even if you’re carrying them or driving them.

“When introducing new experiences, ensure puppy feels free to choose to investigate or move away if they wish to,” adds Burton. Choose quality over quantity, too. It’s best to introduce a small number of new experiences that your puppy reacts positively to than to overwhelm them with too many. And remember, says Burton, “No reaction is the best reaction.”

The puppy stage doesn’t last forever, but by following these tips, you’ll be setting both yourself and your puppy up for an easier ride as they get older. And in the meantime, you get to enjoy all those puppy cuddles!

Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the Instagram post cited below.

Have you ever been in the position where you think you’re making clear progress when it comes to training your new puppy, but then they hit a stage where it’s like they’ve suddenly stopped listening to you?

Even if you’re offering them some of the best dog treats, a refusal to pay you any attention is a common problem that many new owners face when they're bringing home a puppy for the first time.

It’s frustrating, and it’s easy to feel as if you’re failing in some way, but it’s actually fairly normal for puppies to go through a stage like this when they hit around four to eight months of age. And Jamie Huggett, or Jamie the Dog Trainer, of Southern Cross K9, has explained why – and what you can do – in a new Instagram post. 

“They are likely going through what’s called flight instinct,” he explains. “This is a critical development period in all puppies and thankfully only lasts a couple of weeks. However, you need to be really, really careful during this period so that your dog doesn’t form some really bad habits.”

The period of flight instinct involves puppies becoming a little more independent as they get older – they perhaps aren’t relying on you as their parent quite as much, and they’re exploring the world around them. In nature, it’s the time when they’d begin to leave their mother.

Your puppy, previously, would likely have seen you as a sort of security blanket. “They’re not going to stray too far because they’re not quite confident in their surroundings yet,” continues Huggett. “Your puppy then gets a little bit older and starts to explore, and then suddenly they stop listening to you.”

Where some pet parents go wrong during this stage is in letting their puppies ignore them, perhaps letting them off due to their young age. 

Huggett explains that it’s vital to have some training techniques in place, with some management principles so that your pup can’t make mistakes that have longer-term consequences, setting them up for lifelong bad habits. Here are 25 practical tips for training your dog on your own, which might come in handy.

“A long line is going to be your most important tool,” he says. “A ten to 15-meter line, where if your dog does decide to blow off your recall, you’re able to prevent that from happening.” You can physically stop them from reinforcing that behavior because you’ve got them on a leash. 

And he also recommends doing plenty of reinforcing recall. Use treats and make recall as fun as possible, so that your dog will come out of this period of flight instinct and actually enjoy recall. 

You don’t want to find yourself in a position where your dog comes out of flight instinct and still doesn’t listen to you, perhaps because they’ve formed quite negative associations with recall.

This is particularly true if you’ve been frustrated with them, perhaps yelling at them – as much as you might feel annoyed during this stage, it’s best to stay calm and make recall fun. After all, you’ll both be happier further down the line! You may have some trouble for a couple of weeks, but after that, it should be much more plain sailing. 

If you have an older dog and you’re finding recall tricky, you might find this article useful: Three reasons why your dog’s recall isn’t reliable (and what you can do about it).

Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the Instagram post cited below.

While dogs are known for their affectionate and sociable natures, some dogs are more comfortable being touched and handled than others. 

Some dogs are totally happy being picked up and moved around, while others are content with a few pets or maybe a belly rub and then some fun with you and one of the best dog toys. 

Sometimes, no matter your dog’s preferences, it’s necessary to handle their body. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health, and this can include checking their teeth, paws, ears, or coat. 

And, at the same time, if your dog gets hurt – perhaps they get something stuck in their paw – you’ll need to have a look to make sure they’re okay. 

But what can you do if you have a dog who doesn’t like being handled? Melissa Goodman, a certified dog trainer through the Victoria Stilwell Academy For Dog Training & Behavior, of Mission Pawsitive has explained all you need to know in a recent Instagram post. 

“An easy way to make body handling easier for you and more comfortable for your dog is to teach them to settle on their back in between your legs,” Goodman says. 

She explains that she begins by cuddling and massaging the dog so that they’re comfortable and enjoying being in that position, before she mixes in small amounts of body handling – with treats on hand. 

Goodman continues, “Getting your dog comfortable in this position is great because you can easily access just about all parts of their body you may need to check at any given time.”

She explains that this technique is particularly helpful if you have a dog who often gets things caught in their coat, while it also allows you to check your dog’s teeth, ears, nails, and paws, check for matted hair under their armpits, and see if they need a sanitary trim

In the video, Goodman is handling Archie, a dog she’d been working with, and explained that two weeks before filming, he wouldn’t let her handle him. “Making body handling into a bonding experience really helped him and now, he loves it!” she finishes. 

Again, some dogs might enjoy being handled more than others, but even if it’s not your dog’s favorite thing in the world, there are things you can do to make it bearable – or even fun. 

Turn what could be a chore into a real bonding experience for the two of you, so you can look after your pup’s health and strengthen your relationship at the same time. 

And if you’re after more specific advice, like how to clip a dog’s nails, or you’d like eight tips to keep dog teeth clean and healthy, we’ve got plenty of tips here!

Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the video cited below.

Getting out and about in the great outdoors can be a wonderful way to bond with your new puppy — but it can soon become an exhausting experience if your puppy is tugging on the leash and pulling you in a million different directions.

While it's important to be aware of how far can a puppy walk to avoid pushing them beyond their capabilities, a gentle, 20-minute stroll for a four-month old pup should be very doable.

So once you know how long you can safely walk your little fur friend for, the next step is to get them walking well — and you have more of a role to play in this than you might think.

Many pet parents unknowingly make a range of common loose leash walking mistakes that can derail their puppy's progress and make walking them a challenge.

To help you avoid these, expert trainer Andrea Isabell has put together a useful Instagram post in which she shares her top tips for an enjoyable loose leash walk with your puppy.

Let's take a look...

1. Be consistent: "First of all, your puppy (or dog at any age) is ready to learn how to walk nicely with a loose leash when you are ready to be consistent with them," explains Isabell.

2. Position yourself correctly: "Do not walk along behind them while they pull. When a dog pushes into leash pressure, whether harness, flat collar, or slip lead, and you take one step forward with them, this teaches them to pull."

3. Keep your pup engaged: "Change directions and pace to keep your pup engaged in YOU over the environment," Isabell advises. "Utilize leash patterns like 180° turns and fade aways. When your pup goes toward something ahead, change directions or fade back away from them until they join back up with you."

4. Reward eye contact: "When your pup checks in, use a marker word like “yes” and feed them by your leg where you want them to be."

Isabell says it's important to set your pup up for success by ensuring the environment you start working in isn't overly distracting.

"Try beginning in your driveway or an empty parking lot if needed," she suggests.

And if you feel your puppy would benefit from some extra support in this area, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer. 

Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the Instagram post shared below.

When bringing home a puppy for the first time, it's easy to want to spend all your time cuddling and playing with them. After all, there's plenty of time to focus on training later, right?

Wrong!

According to Carolyn, an expert trainer and founder of Good Dogs Training, it feels like you have all the time in the world when you bring home a new puppy. 

But very quickly you've got an adolescent dog on your hands, and if you've not put in the hard work early on, you could find yourself in a whole heap of trouble. 

In order to help you and your fur friend get off to a flying start, Carolyn has shared a post to Instagram in which she reveals five things you should do with your new puppy to prevent problems down the road.

Read on to find out what they are...

1. Socialize: "Before 12 weeks, give your puppy great new experiences with new people, other animals, smells, sounds, objects, etc," Carolyn advises. "The socialization period is short, so don't miss out. Take full advantage of your puppy's developing brain to help them form new positive connections."

2. Reward attention: Carolyn says it's important to reward your pup's attention and to do so often. "An attentive puppy is much easier to train, and this is a skill that will be useful for your dog's entire life."

3. Go to puppy classes: "A good puppy class is so helpful in successfully training and raising a puppy. Get started early on with age-appropriate training, socialization and learning about body language and appropriate play."

4. Prevent bad experiences: "Not only do we want to provide our puppy with good experiences, we also want to prevent bad ones," Carolyn explains. "Don't put your puppy into situations they're not comfortable in, as this can have a lasting impact."

5. Start training early: Carolyn says it's important not to wait until you have a behavior problem on your hands to start training. "Training can help prevent common problems, like pulling on a leash or jumping on people. The sooner you start training, the easier it is."

According to Carolyn, puppy brains are like sponges that quickly soak up new information, so by training and socializing early, you take full advantage of this.

If you'd like some extra support when it comes to helping your new fur friend learn the ropes of what's expected of them, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer. 

Disclaimer: Unless specifically stated, any expert comments quoted in this news piece have been taken directly from the video cited below.

There are few things more exciting than bringing home a puppy for the first time. But, as you've probably already figured out, those little bundles of fluff certainly come with their fair share of challenges too! 

From learning how to potty train a puppy to ensuring they master the perfect loose leash walk, there's a lot to teach your puppy in that first year of their life. 

Trying to figure out how to crate train a dog is one of the things a lot of new pet parents struggle with and it's not hard to see why.

Puppies will often cry when crated for the first time as for the first two to three months of their life, they slept with their littermates, so being alone can feel scary to begin with. 

Thankfully, expert trainer Alex Sessa, founder of Peach on a Leash, has shared a helpful video to Instagram in which she's revealing the three-step process she uses to build a positive association with the crate. 

Read on to find out how she helps puppies feel comfortable in confinement...

1. Use treats strategically: "Toss food into the crate and step back. Wait for your pup to go in to get the food and then toss more inside," Sessa advises. "Keep the door open! When your pup is inside, food is flowing. If they choose to leave, food stops."

2. Pause throughout the training and assess where your puppy is at: "After a few reps, try pausing to see if your puppy will go in the crate BEFORE you toss any food," says Sessa. "If they do, you can then begin rewarding in the crate. Do this a few times."

3. Cue your puppy: "You can now add a cue word," explains Sessa. "Say your word, pause, and wait for your pup to go into the crate, then reward. Then gradually add distance."

After completing the steps listed above, Sessa says that you can then start to work on closing the door and gradually building up the time your puppy spends in their crate.

As with teaching your puppy any new skill, crate training takes time, patience, and consistency — but it's worth persevering. Not only is it a wonderful tool for potty training, but it will help keep your puppy safe and secure when you're out and about.

When you get a new puppy, there are lots of things to think about. From what to feed them to where to walk them to when to take them to the vet, the list can seem endless. And, another thing to consider is bedtime. How do you get your pup ready for bed?

It can take puppies some time to adapt when they get a new home. After all, they’re leaving their mother and littermates, and the only home they’ve ever known. However, from using the best puppy sleep aids to choosing the right spot for sleeping, there are some things that you can do to get them used to a bedtime routine.

In a new Instagram post, certified trainers Lisa and Mike Corcoran of The Confident Hound have explained what you can do to help your puppy get ready for bed.  

If you want to know how to settle a puppy in the evening, and in turn how to get a puppy to sleep through the night, there are a few things you may want to try. 

One thing the Corcorans advise in their post to Instagram is to give your puppy an hour after dinner to wind down with an activity – they suggest giving them a food toy to lick. And, be sure to give your pup a cozy sleeping space. Make sure the temperature is suitable, and that you’re blocking out light. White noise might come in useful too. 

If your pup wakes up during the night to go to the toilet, they might be playful. As much as it might be tempting to give in, it’s best to cuddle and soothe them back off to sleep rather than engage in play or anything active.

Meanwhile, it’s also important to ensure that your puppy’s physical and mental needs are met in the daytime. A content and happy pup who’s had the right amount of food and water, as well as exercise and play, is a pup who’s more likely to drift off to sleep rather than keep you up all night. If you’d like to know how to tire out a puppy, this article might help. 

And remember, for a while, it’s unrealistic to expect your puppy to sleep through the night. They have smaller bladders than adult dogs, and can often find it difficult to get through the night without going to the bathroom, even if they already go before bed. 

The Corcorans acknowledge that the “first few nights or weeks may be hard,” but that it’ll get better, in much the same way that any lifestyle change might be tricky until everybody adjusts. And, by practicing good habits when your dog’s a puppy, you’ll likely get an easier ride later on – as will your dog!

No matter if you’ve had multiple puppies before, socializing puppies can be tricky. Even if you go into it with the very best intentions, and the best dog treats, of course, it’s easy to make subtle mistakes that may have a detrimental effect on your pup’s socialization. 

However, certified trainers Lisa and Mike Corcoran of The Confident Hound have identified some of the most common puppy socialization mistakes in a recent Instagram post, giving dog parents the chance to change some things they do that they might not realize aren’t beneficial.  

In the post, they have outlined five common socialization mistakes that puppy parents might make. The first is waiting until your puppy is fully vaccinated to socialize them. They explain that this is because you’ll have missed the window of opportunity for socialization if you wait – the position of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) is that socialization shouldn’t be delayed because of vaccines. And here’s when puppies can go outside, according to a trainer. 

Another mistake puppy parents often make is taking their puppy everywhere with them. It might seem like a good idea, but if you’re distracted – perhaps you’re running errands or your mind’s elsewhere – you won’t be focused on your pup and socializing them. And, it’s good to get your pup used to being home alone for short amounts of time, and amusing themselves. 

Then there’s the matter of dog parks and doggy daycare. “While utilizing a dog park or dog daycare may be unavoidable for certain situations,” explain the Corcorans, “These environments are not where you want your puppy to be formulating their expectations of dog-dog interactions.”

Instead, they suggest supervising a playdate between your puppy and a dog you know that is likely to get along well with a puppy. 

The fourth mistake people make, according to the post, is thinking that your dog needs to be held by kids – or anybody – as a necessary part of socialization. Children in particular might not be as steady or gentle, making your dog think that being held is scary. Instead, to socialize your dog with children it’s best that they have the choice to come and go as they please when they interact with them. 

Finally, the Corcorans explain that your puppy doesn’t have to greet everybody they meet – even if everyone you pass wants to interact with or make a fuss of them. Instead, it’s best to allow people to interact with your puppy perhaps 25% of the time. If your pup learns that most people will approach, it could lead to issues with reactivity further down the line (be sure to watch out for these other three causes for reactivity). So, it’s a good idea to teach your pup that most passersby are, in essence, background characters to ignore. 

But, while these tips may well come in useful, it’s important to remember that bringing home a puppy for the first time and socializing them may not always be an entirely smooth process, and things could go wrong. Don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t always go to plan – it’s a long process.  

There's no doubt about it — bringing home a puppy for the first time is one of those days in life that's hard to beat. 

Puppies can add so much laughter, affection, and joy to our families, and yet in amongst all the love, there can also be plenty of challenges.

It's not unusual for new pet parents to suffer from the puppy blues during that first year of their little one's life and it's not hard to see why. 

Training a puppy can feel like a rollercoaster with plenty of highs and lows as your young fur friend learns what's expected of them.

According to expert trainer Amelia Steele, puppy parents can easily make a range of mistakes as they too learn what to do.

In a video shared to Instagram, which you can view below, Steele talks you through three of the most common errors she sees in her work and how you can avoid them. Keep reading to find out what they are...

1. Thinking it won't be difficult: "You think that because you've done all the research and you're well prepared, that just because it's difficult for everyone else, doesn't mean it will be difficult for you," Steele says. "You go into it thinking you know what to do, that everything's going to be easy and straightforward but the reality is that it's difficult for everyone. 

"Sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, things are not going to go the way you expect and it's really, really important to keep that in mind because you don't want to be disheartened or put off when things don't go the way you thought they would go."

2. Constantly changing tactics: "What tends to happen when you're new to dog training or you're new to raising a dog is you start doing one training method, you have a good idea of what you're going to do and then it doesn't work so you very quickly swap to something else and you just keep chopping and changing what you're doing," says Steele.

"Now, it's really important to be able to problem solve but when you're constantly chopping and changing the messages that you're giving your puppy or your dog this can become very, very confusing and you end up getting stuck and not making much progress."

When training your puppy, stick to one training method at a time and consult a professional trainer if you feel that your chosen method isn't working for you.

3. Taking every piece of advice you hear on the Internet: "Whether it's Facebook groups or social media in general, be very, very careful about the information that you listen to," Steele advises. 

"Remember that anybody can go on the Internet and call themselves a dog trainer. They don't have to have experience or qualifications and you'll get a lot of people that have the attitude of 'well, it worked for me', and that doesn't necessarily mean it's the best thing to do so be very careful who you listen to."

So there you have it. Three of the most common mistakes puppy owners make and how to avoid them.

And remember, welcome a new puppy into your home can be both hugely rewarding and challenging.

If you feel that you and your little one would benefit from some extra support, we recommend reaching out to a qualified trainer. 

Before you do that, check out our guide to how to spot dog trainer red flags to ensure you're working with a reputable professional who uses positive training methods. 

Teaching a puppy reliable recall is like giving them a superpower – the ability to come back to you, no matter the distraction. Unfortunately, the task of teaching recall to dogs is no easy feat and there can be many reasons why your dog’s recall isn’t reliable. Hence why starting training for it during puppyhood is a wise idea.

If you've ever tried chasing down a zooming pup on a walk or tried to get them to bring back one of the best puppy toys that you've flung them, you'll know the value of mastering the recall command. But the key is not just in the command itself, it's in making it a fun and rewarding experience for your furry friend.

That's where Jenna Pellerito, who runs the The Future is Force Free Instagram page, steps in. She's a professional dog trainer who specializes in positive reinforcement techniques, and she's got a simple game that can turbocharge your puppy's recall skills.

The game is akin to a game of tag. Pellerito suggests starting indoors, where there are fewer distractions. You begin by giving your puppy a tasty treat (some of the best dog treats will come in useful) and then, you run away from them. As you retreat, make sure your pup sees you and the treat, and when they catch up to you, give them another treat. Then, repeat the process.

To find out why this simple game has an impact on teaching recall keep reading. Also, don’t miss out on watching this training hack in action below as well… 

 Why does this work? "Naturally, puppies are inclined to follow us. When we move away from them, they will likely chase after us," notes Pellerito.

"This game uses your puppy's natural desire to follow and builds a reinforcement history for them coming to you," she notes, "Building a reliable recall is all about history of reinforcement, so build up that history while your puppy is young and wants to chase after you anyway.”

This game essentially teaches them that coming when called brings good things, turning recall into a fun activity rather than a chore.

But what if your dog isn't a puppy anymore? Pellerito clarifies that while this game is initially targeted at puppies, it can absolutely benefit older dogs as well. Building a reliable recall is all about building a history of positive experiences, and the sooner you start, the better.

Whether your pup is young or is a mature dog who struggles with recall, Pellerito's game can be practiced indoors to establish the basics before venturing out into more distracting environments like parks. 

There are few things more exciting than bringing home a puppy for the first time. But one thing many of us new pet parents are unprepared for is the amount of biting that can go on in that first year of their life.

It's important to remember that while it can be challenging, for most puppies, biting is a very normal behavior that allows them to explore the world around them.

That being said, how to stop a puppy biting is a common question and although there are lots of different ways you can go about this, some methods are more effective than others.

Biting tends to go away with time and consistency, however there are some traps we puppy owners can easily fall into that can make our little fur friend's biting worse.

In a video shared to Instagram, expert trainer Amelia Steele has shared three mistakes she frequently sees pet parents making when it comes to the issue of puppy biting.

Read on to find out what they are and how you can avoid them...

1. Yelping or squealing when they bite you: While a lot of us may have been told that we should respond with a loud noise when our little fur baby bites us, Steele says this could actually be making your puppy's biting a whole lot worse. "This can be really exciting for a lot of puppies and it can rile them up and cause them to bite you even more," she explains. 

2. Keeping them awake too much in the day: "It's really common that people will try and keep their puppy awake and active so that they sleep better at night," Steele says, "but your puppy can become overtired really easily and they need loads of rest. So if you're keeping them awake too much and you're not giving them enough rest, this can make their biting much worse."

3. Not giving them a way to engage with you as an alternative to the biting: "Puppies bite for lots of reasons and one of those reasons is that they want to engage with us," Steele explains. "If you're not doing any training with them and they're not learning how to work with you, then this can also cause them to want to bite you."

Steering clear of these common mistakes will stand you in good steed when it comes to putting a stop to your puppy's biting behavior.

However, for some puppies, biting may indicate a more serious issue. If you have any concerns, we recommend seeking advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.

The ‘stay’ command is a simple yet vital command that can empower your dog with the ability to remain in a specific position until given permission to move. 

It can come in handy in various situations. Whether it’s about teaching good manners before handing them something, such as a bowl of the best wet dog food or the best puppy toys. Perhaps you are trying to master how to stop a dog from jumping up and need a reliable command that tells them to halt.

Asking your dog to stay will also help when out on walks when you need to safely wait for traffic to pass at roads or for other dogs and humans to pass on busy footpaths.

But how exactly can you master the art of teaching 'stay' to your furry companion?

Enter Gia Savocchi, a certified dog trainer and behaviorist who recently shared the one big mistake countless dog owners make when teaching a dog to stay. View her Instagram below or carry on reading to find out what this mistake is and how to fix it.

Savocchi says the main aspect of teaching 'stay' that many dog owners inadvertently overlook is awarding the dog too early. According to Savocchi, asking your puppy to sit and then immediately praising them and handing them a treat is, “One of the worst things that you can do when teaching a puppy to stay”. 

This can inadvertently reward the dog for getting up, which is quite the opposite of what you are trying to do.

Instead, the dog behavior specialist advocates a method that nurtures the desired behavior, “One of the ways we teach ‘stay’ is to get the puppy to sit and we just reward them as long as they stay sitting with little pieces,” Savocchi explains, “So they start to learn that as they stay seated they can earn more treats.”

Gradually, the dog learns that staying seated results in more treats, reinforcing the connection between the command and the action. 

Savocchi also recommends introducing a release word or phrase, such as 'ok', that signals to your pooch that they are free to move again. This word helpe them to differentate between when they should be still and when they are free to roam.

Mastering the 'stay' command is about nurturing a connection built on trust, understanding, and effective communication between you and your furry companion. 

Savocchi's insights offer a helpful reminder that successful dog training often depends on employing the right techniques and avoiding common pitfalls. 

When somebody’s looking for a new puppy, they’ll often just get one – after all, puppies can be a handful!

However, some people go for more than one puppy. Perhaps each of your children wants a puppy of their own, you’re raising puppies with friends, or you were only intending to bring one home but they were just too cute to say no to.

When you're taking a puppy home for the first time, there's lots that can go wrong — especially when you're raising more than one at the same time!

But, there are some things you can do to help the process go a lot more smoothly, and increase the chances of your pup's becoming best friends but being equally happy doing their own thing too, and not fighting over their favorite long-lasting dog chews!

Fortunately, Carolyn, an expert trainer and the founder of Good Dog Training in Washington, has outlined some important tips in an Instagram post.

In the post, Carolyn outlines scenarios where families get puppies from the same litter, and let them stay together all the time. Sharing a crate would lead to resource guarding and playing in the yard together would lead to fighting.

She also highlights the issue of two friends getting puppies at the same time and letting them play together non-stop whenever they’re together, something that starts off cute but ends up being frustrating when the dogs refuse to do anything but play when they see each other.

Puppies who live together should get time apart, she explains. This means being crated separately, getting individual training sessions and quality time with you, and separate walks on occasion too. It’s important that they learn to manage without each other, and bond with their human family members, too.

And, it’s important to monitor their time together. It might be tempting to let your pups play together all day – after all, it can make life easier – but dog play fighting, and even violent. There’s no harm in dogs playing with each other, of course, but keep an eye on things to make sure it’s safe and they aren’t developing bad habits.

While there's no denying that bringing home a puppy for the first time can be a joyful experience, there's one thing about being a pet parent to a small bundle of fluff that can prove challenging — and that's training. 

Whether it's crate training a dog or you're in the throes of the puppy teething phase and are trying to get your little one to stop chewing everything in sight, helping your puppy learn the ropes takes time.

No wonder so many new pet parents report experiencing the puppy blues in the first year of their new fur friend's life — all of that training can leave you feeling exhausted!

But there will come a time when your puppy starts to understand what's expected of them, and this crucial moment is where expert dog trainer Amelia Steele sees so many of us go wrong. 

"I see it all the time where people get a puppy, the training goes really well, the puppy's listening, responding to their name, it's staying with them on a walk, and then because they can do all those things and they can listen so well, the person thinks 'hey, my job's done,' and they stop rewarding the dog," explains Steele.

Steele says that not continuing to reward your dog or stopping training altogether will have big implications when your puppy reaches adolescence.

"When a dog's adolescent phase starts, which is usually around six months, their interest in the environment increases because their hormones are increasing. 

So what happens is if you stop rewarding them and then all of a sudden the environment is much more interesting, all of that training that you've done will go out the window."

If you a have a puppy or a young dog, Steele says that it's important that you continue training all the way through the adolescent phase and that you keep rewarding them for the things that you like.

Doing so will ensure that all the hard work you put in during those early months of your puppy's life won't disappear the minute they reach the dreaded teenage phase! 

If you're anything like most pet parents, trying to figure out how to stop a puppy biting, mouthing or nipping is likely high on your priority list. And we can't say we blame you!

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so this is typically very normal behavior. It's also common during the puppy teething phase when your little one is looking for ways to ease pain and discomfort. 

That being said, being mouthed or nipped constantly is enough to give any dog owner a serious case of the puppy blues. Thankfully, there is a solution. 

In a video shared to Instagram, expert trainer Adam Spivey, who is also the founder of Southend Dog Training, says the answer is simple — put your puppy down for a nap. To find out more, you can check out the clip below, or read on for a summary of what Spivey has to say...

"Puppies turn into little land sharks when they're over tired," explains Spivey. "If we don't recognize this, it will get worse and worse."

In the clip, Spivey can be seen sat on the couch with a puppy he's just been training. They've had a super productive training session, but all of a sudden the puppy has started getting silly and biting — according to Spivey, that's because he's tired.

The solution is to pop the puppy in a crate. "The puppy needs a nap, that's why it's biting," he explains.

"Lack of sleep leads to puppy biting and more severe behavior issues down the road, such as separation anxiety, destructive behavior, obsessive barking, shadow chasing, and accidents in the house, to name a few."

When your puppy starts to bite, mouth, or nip, it's nap time. This is important as it will help your little one learn limits and how to switch off and sleep.

If you require additional support with your puppy, it's always worth reaching out to a professional trainer or behaviorist who will be able to help you navigate that first year of your fur friend's life. 

Are you thinking of getting a puppy? Bringing home a new puppy for the first time can be incredibly exciting, and there's no denying that these small bundles of fluff can infuse our lives with so much love, laughter, joy, and affection.

But as a prospective new puppy owner, it can be easy to get caught up in thoughts of cuddles on the couch and long walks in nature and lose sight of the fact that having a small canine companion around the house will also bring with it a fair few challenges.

It's not unusual for pet parents to find themselves unexpectedly struggling with the dreaded puppy blues during the first year of their new fur friends life. Interrupted sleep, incessant barking, toilet training issues, and changes to your daily routine can all catch you off guard.

As a prospective new puppy owner, it can be helpful to get a realistic picture of what to expect. Thankfully, certified trainer Carolyn, who is also the founder of Good Dog Training, has put together a handy Instagram post sharing everything you need to know. You can check it out below or read on for a summary...

1. It's work: "It's so much more than just puppy snuggles," explains Carolyn. "It's getting up all night to let them out, it's training, socializing, playing, exercising, feeding, cleaning up, vet visits, etc. This work will not end any time soon."

2. You may not end up with your dream dog: This can be a hard one for us to swallow as new pet parents, but according to Carolyn, even if you do everything right, you may still not end up with the dog you hoped for. "Genetics play a big role in personality. If you don't end up with the dog you wanted, will you still love them? Can you make it work?"

3. It's not easy: "It's stressful for both of you," Carolyn acknowledges. "Coming home with you is a HUGE change for your puppy. There will be a lot of crying for the first few nights as they're trying their best to cope with stress. You'll need to be patient. Take time off work if you can, so you can help them get settled before leaving the house for eight plus hours a day."

4. It may not be easy for current pets: It's important to understand that if you already have pets in the family, they may well find the addition of a new puppy to be a stressful experience. "It's not a choice they got a say in," explains Carolyn, "So make sure you give them plenty of alone time away from the puppy and with you. Supervise and run interference for your older pets and don't allow your puppy to bite and clobber them."

5. It's a big time commitment: "You'll give up sleep, spend time training and socializing and supervising and playing - and that won't end any time soon. Puppies aren't toys you can put away when you're done playing with them," Carolyn stresses.

6. It can be costly: "Puppies aren't cheap, and I don't just mean the cost of acquiring them," says Carolyn. "You'll be paying for vaccinations and vet bills, puppy class, puppy toys, chews, a leash and collar, a crate, replacing stuff they chew up, food, treats, etc."

7. The socialization period ends before vaccinations are complete: A lot of people worry about starting to socialize their puppy before they've had all their vaccinations, but Carolyn says it's a must. "The socialization period ends at approximately 12 weeks. Depending on your vet, vaccinations aren't complete until 16-20 weeks. Isolating your puppy until vaccines are complete increases their risk of lifelong behavior problems."

8. They aren't easy but are 100% worth it: "It won't feel like it in the moment, but puppyhood will fly by and the next thing you know you're saying your final goodbyes, looking back on years of loving them and wishing you could have just a little more time. You won't remember or care about the sleepless nights, vet bills, or shoes they ruined. You'll just be glad you knew them."

If you'd like some extra support with your new puppy, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer who will be able to offer you lots of advice and guidance to help you navigate the first year of your little ones life.

Have you just welcomed a new puppy into your family? Congratulations! There's no denying that our smallest fur friends can bring so much joy to our lives, but as you're probably already discovering, there's plenty to learn when it comes to being a new puppy parent.

From trying to figure out which of the best puppy toys are worth the investment to navigating the unexpected puppy blues that can hit you during the first year of your little ones life, having a puppy in the house gives you plenty to think about — and plenty of challenges to overcome.

Chief amongst them? Learning how to prevent the most common puppy behavior problems before they turn into lifelong issues. Thankfully, certified trainer Carolyn, who is also the founder of Good Dog Training, has come to the rescue with a handy Instagram post where she reveals her top tips for preventing behavior problems. Let's take a look...

1. Practice separation: "Teach your puppy how to be alone by leaving them for short periods early on," Carolyn recommends. "This could be that your puppy is behind a baby gate while you sit on the couch five feet away. This could be that your puppy spends a few minutes in another room or in the yard without you. Make sure to give plenty of fun chews and toys, and start small. This helps prevent separation anxiety."

2. Expose them to lots of new people: Do this in a way that your puppy enjoys and before they reach 12 weeks of age. "Note that this does not mean new people have to touch your puppy," explains Carolyn, "this means that you allow your puppy to sit in your lap and watch people pass by at a park while you give them treats. This helps prevent aggression in dogs."

3. Expose them to other dogs: Once again, Carolyn recommends doing this in a safe way before your puppy reaches the three-month mark. As with people, it's best to start off with your puppy on your knee and reward them with plenty of treats as other dogs go past.

4. Practice trades: "Instead of just taking stuff from your puppy, trade!" says Carolyn. "Did your puppy just run by with your sock? Trade them a tasty treat for your sock. Ready to take that bully stick away for the night? Trade them for a yummy treat. This helps prevent resource guarding."

5. Drop treats: "Any time your puppy has a chew, a toy, or is eating, walk by and drop a tasty treat for them," Carolyn advises. "You don't need to take their stuff or bug them, simply walk by and drop treats." This is another great way to prevent resource guarding later in life.

6. Avoid bad experiences: Even one bad experience can be hugely problematic for dogs. As Carolyn explains, one attack from another dog can cause reactivity or aggression. One bad experience with a new person can cause fearfulness around new people. "It's important to try to protect your puppy from bad experiences."

7. Start puppy class early: "A good trainer will help you spot early warning signs of potential behavior issues and can help you nip them in the bud," says Carolyn. "A good puppy class also provides fun exposure to new people and other puppies."

8. Handle your puppy: "Focus on ears, mouth, tail, and all four feet and legs. Touch a foot, give a treat. Lift the tail, give a treat. Teach your puppy that being handled is an ok experience. This helps prevent aggression with handling."

Maintaining a puppy's focus during walks, especially when encountering other dogs, is no easy feat. This is just one of the many loose leash walking mistakes canine owners face in the early stages of training.

While there are simple fixes, like the best dog treats, that can be used as a means of distraction, there are longer-term solutions for maintaining your pup’s focus while out on walks. The head coach at Kane9 Dog Training, Kait has shared a valuable tip on the Kane9 Instagram account that will equip owners with knowledge on how to maintain a pup’s attention around other dogs and help to create a more enjoyable walking experience.

By carefully considering the associations created around other dogs and finding a balance between engagement and playtime, pet owners can foster better focus and control over their puppies during walks. Kait demonstrates this in a video below but underneath this, you will find a full summary of her advice.

The trainer from Kane9 encourages dog owners to, “Take a step back and think about what associations you might have created around other dogs.” Kait goes onto explain that constantly arranging "play dates," taking puppies to daycare or dog parks, and allowing them to interact freely with neighborhood dogs can inadvertently teach puppies that meeting other dogs always leads to engaging in play. While socialization is crucial, an overemphasis on playtime can make it challenging to maintain a puppy's focus on their owners.

To address this issue, the Kane9 trainers recommend finding a balance that prioritizes engagement with the owner across various contexts, particularly while on leash. Establishing clear boundaries and permission for safe interaction with other dogs is important while reinforcing the importance of staying focused on the owner during walks. By incorporating these elements, pet owners can create a more harmonious and enjoyable walking experience for the puppy and themselves.

Plus, it's never too early or late in a pup's life to teach recall. Working out the reasons why your dog’s recall isn’t reliable and then addressing this through training, with or without a trainer, can improve engagement while out walking.

With regular training, pet owners can promote better focus and control during walks, enabling them to guide their puppies with confidence. This not only contributes to safer and more enjoyable outings but also helps puppies develop essential obedience skills and adaptability in various environments.

Perhaps you'd like to work on more areas of canine behavior, so feel free to stick around and find out how to how to calm a reactive dog or how to stop a dog from jumping up.

While bringing home a puppy for the first time can feel incredibly exciting, there's no denying that those initial few days can also feel stressful and overwhelming for everyone involved. 

Your puppy will be trying to adjust to being away from its mother and littermates, while also getting used to a whole new environment and set of routines. You'll also be trying to find your own feet as a pet parent when it comes to helping your new fur friend learn the ropes of what's expected of them. 

With so much going on, it's no wonder that many people report experiencing the dreaded puppy blues in those first few months after welcoming a canine companion into their family. 

Although there's no denying that having a puppy can be both a joyful experience and a challenging one, expert trainer Amelia Steele says there's plenty you can do to help make those initial few days a calm and comfortable experience for both your puppy and yourself. Read on for her top three tips for helping a new puppy settle in....

1. Don't overload them: "A puppy's first few days at home can be overwhelming and stressful for them," explains Steele. It's important not to overload your puppy by having lots of guests round straight away or allowing children to pick them up endlessly." Steele recommends you give your puppy lots of space and always work at their pace. 

2. Start toilet training straight away: "Don't be tempted to rely on puppy pads! The sooner you start toilet training, the faster your puppy is going to learn," says Steele who advises getting your puppy into a good routine from the get go.

3. Manage their space: "Puppies find it hard to generalize, which means the more space you give them, the harder training will be. Limit their space by allowing them access to one room at a time and utilise playpens where needed." Steel says that puppies are also more likely to chew and get into trouble, so pop them in a safe space when you're not able to supervise them. 

Because puppies require a great deal of time, patience, and consistency when it comes to learning which behaviors are acceptable, we understand that training can feel frustrating at times. If you feel you and your fur friend would benefit from some extra support, we recommend reaching out a professional trainer who will be able to work with your puppy 1:1. 

Looking for more great content to help you navigate your puppy's first year of life? Then be sure to check out our guide to puppy behavior where our vet shares their top tips for solving the most common behavioral issues. 

There's no denying it — learning how to potty train a puppy is no easy feat! If teaching this important skill is something you're struggling with right now, rest assured, you're not alone. 

Potty training is a commonly cited struggle amongst new pet parents and cleaning up after all of those accidents can result in a serious case of the puppy blues. But potty training needn't be a challenge, and when done correctly, it's a wonderful opportunity to bond with your fur friend and set them up with some great habits that will last a lifetime. 

Expert trainer Amelia Steele says there's one common mistake she sees people make that can derail their attempts to successfully potty train their pup. To find out what it is, check out Steele's Instagram video below or read on for a summary of everything you need to know. 

"A really common mistake that I see when it comes to puppy toilet training is using the wrong cleaner," reveals Steele. "Now, this sounds so weird, right? A cleaner is just a cleaner. Well, not all cleaners get rid of the smell completely."

Steele says that while lots of cleaners can cover up the smell for us humans, dogs are really good at detecting tiny little particles that are left over. If your cleaner doesn't get rid of all of them, then your puppy will return to the same spot to do their business.

And according to Steele, some cleaners can even increase the chances that your puppy will have an accident.

"Anything with bleach in is a no. The smell of ammonia actually makes your puppy want to pee more, which can make toilet training even harder. So if you feel like you're doing everything right with toilet training, but your puppy still isn't getting it, then try switching out your cleaner."

While having a new puppy in your family can certainly fill your home with joy, there's no denying that potty training can be a real challenge. If you find that you're not seeing the progress you'd like, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer, or your vet, for advice and guidance. 

For more great puppy content to help your little one thrive in the first year of life, check out our guide to how to teach a puppy to sit.

If you’ve just welcomed a new bundle of fluff into your family — congratulations! Puppies can infuse our lives with so much joy, but there’s no denying that bringing home a puppy for the first time can also include plenty of challenges.

From figuring out how to get a puppy to sleep through the night to choosing the right puppy food to help your little fur friend grow up big and strong, there’s a lot to think about during that first year of your puppy’s life. Add trying to properly socialize your canine companion to the list and it’s no wonder that so many pet parents find themselves struggling with the puppy blues. 

Thankfully, expert trainer Amelia Steele has come to the rescue with a handy Instagram video where she outlines three of the most common mistakes pet parents make when it comes to socializing their puppy — and how you can avoid them. Here’s what she had to say…

1. Waiting until your puppy is fully vaccinated before you take them out: “Now yes, they can’t go on the floor and they can’t go for a walk before they’ve had all of their vaccinations. However, it’s perfectly safe to carry them around. You want them to start seeing things as soon as possible, so carrying them around either in your arms or in a sling is a really good way to safely expose them to sights and sounds.”

2. Only focusing on dog socialization: “Socializing your puppy with other dogs is a part of socialization but it shouldn’t be all of it,” Steele says. “In that sensitive phase between about eight and 16 weeks old, you want to make sure that your puppy is being exposed to different places, people, sights, sounds, smells, textures and even loud noises.”

3. Exposing your dog to every dog you meet or none of them: “It’s really important that you show your dog that it’s a balance,” explains Steele. “Sometimes they get to meet other dogs and sometimes you’ll just walk by. Yes it’s important they learn social skills but you also don’t want them to be meeting every single other dog. This in itself could cause reactivity long term.”  

Helping your puppy to learn the ropes of what’s expected of them takes time, patience, and consistency. If you find that after several months of socializing your puppy, you’re not seeing the positive progress that you’d like, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer for advice and guidance.

For more great puppy content to help your little one thrive in the first year of life, check out our guide to how to teach a puppy to sit.

Young puppies are little sponges and foodies at heart, making them the perfect candidates for a clever training hack. By using your pup's actual meal (perhaps a scrumptious option from our guide to the best puppy food), you can incorporate fun engagement work into their training sessions.

The head trainer at Kane9 Dog Training, Kait, is a big advocate for this approach to training in puppyhood. Here's what she has to say, "When I'm working with young puppies, I like to utilize their meals to have them do some training. Tons and tons of luring is going to take place. You are going to have smaller attention spans with these little guys, so really utilize their meal to your advantage."

The key to this technique is to use your puppy's regular mealtime as an opportunity for training. Instead of just placing their food in a bowl, consider turning it into a rewarding and educational experience. Start by using the food as a lure to guide your pup through basic commands like sit, stay, or come. 

You'll find that they become more focused and eager to learn when they associate their meal with positive reinforcement. Once you notice success with this trick, you can test the waters with some trickier lessons like learning how to potty train a puppy. 

Watch Kait demonstrate this food training method below and read on to find out more...

Not only does this method make training more enjoyable, but it also helps address common challenges faced by puppy owners such as leash training for the first time. "I also like to start having a puppy feel what a leash on their neck is going to eventually feel like," Kait from Kane 9 Training explains, "Versus just waiting for when they're older and then that pressure feels so foreign and you have a little alligator at the end of the leash." 

Learning how to train a puppy to walk on a leash isn't easy but will help to prevent future struggles when your pup grows up. By gradually getting your puppy accustomed to the feeling of a leash, you can ensure a smoother transition into leash training as they mature. It's all about setting them up for success and instilling good habits from an early age.

Remember, these training sessions should be short and engaging. Aim to keep your pup's attention focused, and always end on a positive note, leaving them wanting more. By incorporating their meals into training time, you're not only nourishing their bodies but also their minds and behavior.

While training is essential, dog owners should never neglect the value of simply spending quality time together with their puppy, bonding and playing around. This  collection of the best puppy toys will ensure you and your four-legged friend can have all the fun together.

If you’ve just welcomed a new bundle of fluff into your family - congratulations! Puppies can infuse our lives with so much laughter, love, joy and affection, but there’s no denying that their first year of life can bring with it several challenges.

Many pet parents report experiencing the dreaded puppy blues due to issues with excessive barking, toilet training, destructive behavior and lack of sleep. However, according to expert trainer Adam Spivey, a lot of the problems we face when our puppies are young could be prevented by avoiding one common mistake.

So, what exactly is that mistake? Well, according to Spivey, it all comes down to how you put your puppy down for a nap and the environment you create for them while they’re resting. You can watch his Instagram video below or read on for a summary of everything you need to know.

“A big mistake we make with puppies is that when we put the puppy down for a nap, we go quiet,” Spivey explains. We don’t bang around, we don’t do any housework, or anything like that because we’re afraid we’re going to wake the puppy up.”

Spivey says this is a huge mistake that can cause long-term behavioral issues down the line because when a puppy grows into an adult dog, they haven’t been exposed to a lot of the noises they’re going to need to be able to tolerate.

“What we end up doing is creating very sound-sensitive dogs. So if a bang does go off or you start doing the housework, your puppy freaks out. This can transpire over to thunderstorms, fireworks and things like that. 

The best time to do your housework is once you’ve tired the puppy out, put the puppy down in the crate for a nap and then crack about your business. Do the housework, do the washing, do the vacuuming, do the mopping. Don’t be quiet. We want to teach puppies to sleep through noise so when your puppy is asleep, carry on as normal.”

Looking for more great content to help you navigate the first year of your puppy's life? Then be sure to check out our guide to bringing home a puppy for the first time.

If you've just welcomed a new puppy into your family — congratulations! Having four little soft paws padding about your home is enough to melt anyone's heart, but mixed in with all the joy there are certainly some challenges when it comes to raising a puppy.

At the top of the list? Sleepless nights! Even if you've tired your fur friend out during the day with the best puppy toys, you may find that they still struggle to sleep at night. Rest assured, it's a common issue, with many pet parents reporting that no matter what they try, their little one won't stop crying long enough for them to get some shuteye.

Bringing home a puppy for the first time often involves a lot of disturbed sleep, but expert dog trainer Julianna DeWillems says there's a simple trick new owners tend to miss that can help their puppy to settle at night. You can check out DeWillems advice in the Instagram video below or read on for a summary of how she helps puppy parents send their little one off to the land of nod. 

"One of the most challenging parts of puppyhood is new puppy parents not getting a lot of sleep," DeWillems says. "This can be due to puppies whining or crying in their crate at night. It's so important to remember that puppies are babies and no matter how much you love your new puppy and welcome them into your home with open arms, this is a huge, overwhelming change for them."

Because puppies are used to sleeping with littermates, the sudden transition to a new environment where they're alone can trigger a huge amount of distress. Thankfully, helping your puppy to feel safe and secure enough to go to sleep doesn't have to involve tough love.

"It should be expected that a brand new puppy is going to have a hard time sleeping all alone in a new place, especially if isolated," explains DeWillems. "This is why we generally recommend a sleeping set up that helps puppies feel close and connected to you."

So, how exactly can you go about creating a space that feels safe and comfortable for your pup? Well, according to DeWillems she typically recommends a set up that has your puppy's crate at bed level, right next to you.

"This ensures that you can comfort your puppy and help them feel safe and cared for as they're falling asleep. Over the coming weeks, you can slowly transition your crate away from the bed and to whatever space you want it to be in long term once your puppy feels comfortable in it."

If you try out the above tip from DeWillems and still find your puppy is struggling to settle at night, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer for some 1:1 support.

For more great puppy advice check out our vet's guide to puppy behavior for tips on how to solve some of the most common problems you're likely to encounter during the first year of your new fur friend's life.

Most dog owners like the idea of enjoying the best of both worlds with their pup: fun and silly play time balanced out with calmer more relaxed time together. Can you have it all in puppyhood? You certainly can if you can teach your pooch the value of staying still.

A young canine that can't be swayed from playing with its puppy toys or running around your home like a madman will require some training. Thankfully, this doesn't mean you need to right away find a trainer near you or devote all your free time to disciplining your dog. 

Hillary Ratcliff Pini, Owner & Trainer at Good Wellesley Dogs, has shared on the Good Wellesley Dog Training Instagram page a stupidly easy hack for calming a puppy down and encouraging them to focus their attention on you. You can watch her demonstrate this below...

Pini wrote in the caption of her video, "Here’s a simple daily drill that anyone can and should do!". If you took a moment to watch the video you will have seen for yourself just how easy this training solution is to try at home.

All you need to do is put a leash on your puppy and be a 'human tether'. A leash isn't just for outdoor use so don't feel silly clipping your pup into one at home when it's for training purposes.

Next, "Act like a fence post, don't move, just use the leash and draw the puppy back into you," explains Pino, "Have patience. You'll be amazed at the result when you limit your puppy's space and simply don't let them go everywhere."

At the end of the video you can see a nice and calm puppy sitting at Pino's feet and Pino says any puppy owner can experience this too. Her Instagram followers clearly agreed with the simplicity of this training method, sharing praise in the comments section of the post. One commented, "So so overlooked, 90% of the work is taught in the home with little basic things just like this," and another said, "Perfect example of rewarding STATE OF MIND".

While this leash training hack might not be the answer to all your puppy training hurdles it's a starting point for showing your new dog who's in charge. Stick around if you'd like to read more helpful advice like, how to teach a puppy to sit.

If you've just welcomed a new bundle of fluff into your family - congratulations! Puppies have such a wonderful ability to infuse our lives with lots of extra laughter, love and affection, but as you're probably already figuring out, helping them to learn the behaviors that are expected of them in your home can certainly bring its fair share of challenges. 

While the best puppy toys and treats are certainly useful when it comes to rewarding good behavior and helping your pup to stay motivated, expert dog trainer Miles Hamilton says there's a common mistake he sees new pet parents making that can derail their puppy's progress - and that's giving them too much freedom. 

"This is the number one mistake I see new puppy owners making - giving their dog too much freedom too soon," Hamilton explains in a TikTok video, which you can view above. 

"The puppy is peeing in the house, they're chewing the shoes, they're jumping on the counters, they're chewing furniture, it's complete chaos."

Thankfully, Hamilton has three tips to help you stay on track during that first year of being a puppy parent and get the behavior from your dog that you're looking for - and it all comes down to management.

"Management is the secret to raising a puppy and keeping your sanity in the process," says Hamilton. So, what does good management look like? Well, according to Hamilton it all comes down to these things...

1) Puppy proof your environment: "Pick up the cables, pick up the shoes, pick up everything off the ground."

2) Use a crate: "When you're not home, put the dog in a crate. When you are home, you can keep the dog on a place board."

3) Limit access to the house: "Only give them access under direct supervision. You can slowly increase the amount of freedom you give them as they prove to you that they can handle it."

Training a new puppy takes time, patience and consistency. If you feel you're not seeing the progress you'd like or expect within a few months, we recommend reaching out to a professional trainer for advice and guidance. 

Finding that first year of raising your fur friend more challenging than you expected? Then be sure to check out our guide to the puppy blues where an expert shares tips and tricks to help make those first 12 months a little easier.

What dog owner wouldn’t want to learn how to teach a puppy to sit? After all, it’s an excellent command to be able to use in everyday life, plus, teaching a new skill to your dog is a great way to bond with them.

When your new four-legged friend isn’t distracted by some of the best puppy toys, they can cause havoc around the house and you’ll soon learn the value of teaching them to sit when you need them to. Thankfully, it’s one of the easier commands to teach. Canine behaviorist and nutrition consultant for Pooch & Mutt, Dr Emma Scales-Theobald recommends that you, “Keep training sessions short and sweet with lots of encouragement, praise and treats. The more fun and enjoyable the training is, the quicker your puppy will learn.”

Being a dog parent is a bit like being a parent to a child, not all styles of parenting and teaching will work for every canine but there are some tips and tricks to make disciplining them a little bit more fluid. Theobald ran us through the basics of teaching a puppy how to sit, when is best to start teaching this command, and why it’s worthwhile doing. We also spoke to Ryan Neile, who is the head of behavior at the UK national pet charity Blue Cross. Read on to find out what the experts had to say… 

How do you teach a puppy to sit?

1) Find what motivates your puppy most

First off, you need to establish what motivates your puppy. Dr Scales-Theobald says, “The majority of puppies will enjoy treats, but some may be more motivated by a toy or game or just praise.”

Some training accessories might make your dog hyper such as their favorite toy so, in this case, you might want to focus on just using a food reward, like one of the best puppy treats.

“[Try] something to help them focus and enable training sessions to last longer, whilst still being high value to keep them motivated,” notes Dr Scales-Theobald. If using food, she says it’s best to use small treats or break up bigger ones so that you don’t fill up your puppy too quickly and you avoid overfeeding them. If you’re worried, here’s what to do if your dog is overweight.

2) Praise the behavior when it naturally occurs

Naturally, your puppy will want to sit frequently throughout the day. When you notice them do this at a suitable time, make an effort to praise them for the action. “Then,” Dr Scales-Theobald says, “You can start to pair this with the command 'sit’ and a hand signal.”

Now you’re ready to tackle the third and final step which is the teaching part.

3) Guide them into a ‘sit’

• Bring the treat or toy to them, right in front of their nose.
• Raise the treat or toy up in a small arc to be above their head, keeping the treat or toy close to their nose. This should make them want to sit down.
• If your puppy keeps stepping backward with this method rather than sitting, you can try guiding their bottom to the ground or try raising the treat or toy higher up out of their reach.
• As soon as their bottom touches the ground, you can give them the treat or toy and praise them.
• After a few repetitions, you can start to pair this with the ‘sit’ command and a hand signal. For example, as soon as their bottom touches the ground, say ‘sit’ and then give them the treat or toy with praise.
• You can then phase out the need to guide them into this position and bring the verbal command and hand signal earlier in this sequence.

Once you’ve mastered this a few times Neile recommends you practice the sit command in different scenarios where your puppy can be faced with other distractions. “Practice ‘sit’ when greeting people, ask your dog to sit rather than jumping up, or when sitting at curbs before you cross a road.” And of course, always remember to reward them. 

When should you start training a puppy to sit?

Most people bring a new puppy home at around eight-12 weeks old and according to Neile, you can start right away. This is a good time to teach them basic cues like sit, come, and stay.

Dr Scales-Theobald seconds this and said, “It is a very manageable beginner's trick to teach young puppies. It is a great one to start training your puppy with and is often the first command they will learn.”

As she mentioned earlier, the more enjoyable the learning process is, the more successful it will be. “You could incorporate the training into a game or on a walk,” mentions Dr Scales-Theobald, “To make it more fun than a dedicated training session.”

What are the benefits of teaching a puppy to sit?

“A well-trained dog is a happy dog who will be able to be easily involved in your day-to-day life,” says Neile and this really does encapsulate why you should bother teaching your dog basic cues like sit. If your dog is able to sit and remain in one spot when the doorbell goes, when guests enter your house, at a curb while you are waiting on traffic to pass on a busy road, then it will make your home feel a little calmer, keep your pup out of trouble or danger and bring you peace of mind.

Dr Scales-Theobald says that teaching this trick can also really help to build a stronger bond between the two of you. She explains, “This is because practicing this trick helps to develop your relationship and help your puppy to develop trust in you.” Plus, it encourages your puppy to enjoy training and see how fun and rewarding it can be. It will help form a foundation for other tricks and training like ‘lie down’ and teaching them not to jump up. 

If this is your first experience with a new puppy then it’s normal to have lots of questions. Fortunately, we have consulted the experts on many more common questions like how to stop your puppy crying at night and how to train a puppy to walk on a leash. 

What’s a dog's strongest sense? Tuning into your dog's sense of smell is certainly something that will engage their attention when you’re trying to teach them a simple, yet very useful, skill like how to sit.

If your puppy hasn't learned to chill out just yet and the only time you see them sit down is when they’re chewing away at one of the best puppy toys, then you’re probably desperate for them to understand the sit command so that you can use it in all situations. However, a young puppy is not going to instantly understand the word 'sit' no matter how many times you say it.

Not being able to get your dog to sit is a very common problem for many puppy owners. Thankfully, Steve Del Salvio, who is a dog psychology expert, trainer, and the owner of Pack Leader Dogs can help those struggling to teach a puppy to sit and right away he says that’s all in the nose.

“Most of the dog training world focuses on eyes and ears when working with a puppy and rarely engage the nose which makes no sense to me,” says Salvio. Watch below to see how he instead uses a dog’s nose to lure them into the sitting position.

Salvio explains that in terms of dog psychology, the nose is the most important sense for the dog. He sees no point in repeatedly saying “Sit! Sit! Sit” to a puppy who doesn’t know what this word means. 

“So instead, we bring the food, wave it in front of the dog’s nose, and the nose gets engaged. Now I’m going to lure the dog’s head up behind him. So when I go over, he or she starts moving back and then as their butt is going to the ground right in that moment, I say ‘sit’,” says Salvio. This is also when he presents the food, using positive reinforcement right after the puppy does the desired behavior.

The more times you do this, the puppy will pick up that sit means doing this action, and food will be rewarded to them until you won’t need any form of treats to achieve this behavior.

This might not be the key to success with all puppies so take your time, look into other training methods shared by trainers, or consider spending some one on one time with a trainer and help your puppy learn important behaviors.

PetsRadar has lots of helpful vet-approved guides on raising a puppy so don’t dash off. Why not read more on how to bathe a puppy, what is fading puppy syndrome and how to puppy proof your house and yard.

Learning how to train a puppy to walk on a leash isn’t as simple as it sounds but we ought to cut the little ones some slack. They're new to the world and understandably excited to sniff out and explore their surroundings. However, the sooner you’re able to show them how to behave well on a leash the better you will set them up for good leash walking when they grow up.

While the best puppy toys provide a great form of stimulation for your puppy, they can distract your dog from focusing on you on walks. Instead, Andrew Lang, owner and trainer of Paws in Nature training recommends having a pocket full of treats when teaching your pup to walk nicely.

Lang illustrates in a video shared with Tiktok exactly how puppy owners can create a training structure that will teach their puppy to stay right by their heel while walking on a leash. 

Rather than use food as a means to bribe your pooch into doing as you say, you are going to use the treats as a way to show them that good behavior gets a reward. 

The easiest way to first practice this training solution is in your home or somewhere where there are no distractions. There is no use in throwing your puppy into the deep end where outdoor noises, people and other dogs can overstimulate them.

Then you will essentially walk a very short distance, place food at your shoe, move again, place food at your shoe and so on and so on. Lang says, “I want it to be very very structured in the sense that she catches my foot up and a piece of food gets handed to her. We turn and then we feed. We turn away and feed.”

The idea is that the puppy is getting attached to being at your heel and this should help to deter them from always pulling ahead. You can gradually extend the distance to take the training further. Teaching your puppy this lesson shows them the value of being next to you and it also means you don't have to apply lots of pressure to the lead.

One dog owner shared in the comments section of Lang's video that they managed to nail this training solution indoors but it's a whole other story when they try to practice it outside with their puppy. This will most likely be the most challenging part for many other puppy owners. Try and find quieter areas outside to practice this training and don't get frustrated if it doesn't go to plan. Your puppy is young and still adjusting to the outside world.

Want to learn more about raising a new pup? Stick around and learn how to train a puppy not to bite or read up on this vet's guide to puppy shots.

As we all know, pups are adorable but they’re also a handful. Chewing, messing in the house, destroying shoes and cables…as a new puppy owner, there’s a real risk you might come home to find your living room looks like it’s been taken over by gremlins. Even spending a fortune on the best puppy toys might not stop your best gloves getting nibbled.

According to trainer Miles Hamilton, the number one cause of such problems is giving your new pup too much freedom. In a TikTok video, he points out that no one would leave a two-year-old child home alone, and new puppies also can’t be relied upon to make good decisions when unsupervised.

“Management is the secret to raising a puppy and keeping your sanity in the process,” he explains. Start by puppy-proofing your home, picking up anything that’s loose or that your pup could conceivably reach, such as cables or anything on a low shelf. 

When you’re not home, keep the dog in a crate. When you are home, don’t let your pup run away with the idea that he can tear around the house. Instead, designate a small area where he feels safe, and get him used to the idea of staying there quietly. “You can slowly increase the amount of freedom that you give them as they prove to you that they can handle it,” says Miles.

It's never too early to set clear boundaries, and your puppy will be much happier for knowing what he is or isn’t allowed to do. According to the American Kennel Club, puppies need to be taught the rules of their new social order as soon as they arrive. It’s much easier to teach good habits than correct bad ones, and habits that seem cute in puppies such as jumping up can become a real problem in adult dogs. 

Starting off as you mean to go on is the key, and is the best way to end up with a calm, balanced, well-adjusted pooch. Teach your pup to love his crate by giving him treats or feeding him in there, so that he learns to see it as a safe space where he’s happy to spend time.

For more advice about puppy behavior, take a look at these five tips from a vet for solving puppy behavior problems. To avoid mishaps, you might also be interested in our guide to how to potty train a puppy.

If you've just welcomed a new fur friend into your family - congratulations! Puppies have a wonderful ability to infuse our lives with extra love, laughter, fun, and affection, but they can also come with their fair share of challenges. 

One of the most difficult aspects of pet parenthood is training our puppies to understand what's expected from them. Even with the best puppy toys and treats, learning how to stop a puppy biting takes a lot of time and effort.

However, in a video shared to Instagram, which you can view below, expert dog trainer Adam Spivey reveals that the key to putting a stop to biting is to teach your pup that biting is boring.

"To stop puppy biting, you have to become boring," Spivey explains. "Stop moving your hand away or making high-pitched squeals. Keep it there so the pup learns that no good comes from biting your hand."

So, why is it so important to keep your arm where it is and not make a big deal out of your puppy's biting or mouthing? According to Spivey, the answer is simple:

"Moving your hand away or high-pitched squeals will often only make it more fun for the pup to bite." 

Instead, Spivey says to simply allow your puppy to nip while giving zero reaction or affection. If your fur friend learns that they won't get any attention if they try to engage you in this way, they'll soon tire of the behavior.

Spivey says the key is to make a fuss over your puppy when they're not biting you so that they learn that this is the behavior that gets them the engagement from you that they're looking for.

Looking for more great content to help you navigate the first year of your fur friend's life? Then be sure to check out our guide to how to tire out a puppy to ensure they get the rest they need.