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Tips for Puppy Training: Make Life Easier for You and Your Pup

Two puppies running in the grass.

In January of 2025, Bailey Stickney, CPDT-KA, FFCP, CCUI, KPA-CTP, from Paws Abilities Dog Training, joined us on Facebook Live in honor of National Dog Training Month to discuss some great training tips for puppy parents. You can watch the replay of the video or review a summary of Bailey’s tips below.

Puppy training can be an overwhelming experience! Whether you’re dealing with biting, potty training, crate training, or leash walking, the challenges can feel endless. We get it—you’re tired after work, and training your puppy requires patience and effort. But don’t worry! Bailey has created tips that cater to different pet parent lifestyles, making life at home more joyful and functional for you and your pup. 

Remember, puppies are typically considered dogs under 8-12 months of age, though for larger breeds, “puppyhood” can extend up to three years. Now, let’s dive into some practical strategies to make this stage easier! 

A puppy biting on a red leash.

Puppy Biting 

Puppy biting usually falls into two categories: leash biting and play/tired biting. Here’s how to handle each:  

  • Leash Biting 

    • If your puppy bites your pant leg or the leash during walks, try these tips: 
      • Use a longer leash: Invest in a 10-15 ft leash. This length reduces tension, giving your puppy more freedom to explore naturally. Without the tension, the leash becomes less of a “tug-of-war” toy. 
      • Throw Treats Ahead: Toss a small treat (like freeze-dried chicken) ahead of your puppy. This encourages them to move forward and then want to check back with you for more treats, promoting good behavior. 
  • Play/Tired Biting 

    • Puppies often bite during playtime or when they’re getting tired. Often, puppy parents note there’s a specific time of day where the biting tends to increase. Try setting a timer for 5-30 minutes before this “usual time” – and then trying these tools before your puppy starts to misbehave and you get frustrated.  
      • Containment. Contain your puppy to a crate, exercise pen, or tether. 
        • Help puppies learn to self-soothe by placing soft blankets, a dog bed, and your puppy’s favorite toys or treats in the contained space. 
        • Remember – these aren’t punishments! Encourage your puppy to still enjoy these tools. For example, have your dog eat dinner inside the crate or provide a crate-specific special treat or toy. If you place “the best” toys and treats in the crate – over time, your puppy will associate the crate with comfort and safety. 
          • You can use a short cable tether (which isn’t chewable) to keep certain toys like a Toppl inside the crate.  
        • Never contain a puppy for longer than they can hold their bladder or bowels. 
      • Address Whining: Place the crate, exercise pen, or tether near you so that your puppy still feels involved but won’t be able to bite anyone. If possible, it’s also a great idea to have multiple crates or areas of containment around your home – such as in the kitchen, living room, and a bedroom.  

A puppy jumping up to the top of an exercise pen.

Understanding Barking 

Puppies bark for many reasons such as seeking attention or reacting to changes in their environment. Once you understand the “why”, you can address it effectively:  

  • Attention-Seeking Barking: Redirect your puppy by teaching them an alternative way to communicate. For example, Bailey’s dog learned to lie down (a special trick) instead of barking for treats.
  • Environmental Barking: If your puppy alerts you to stimuli (like squirrels or delivery people), distract them with a training treat or toy. Train your puppy to focus on you instead of the distraction.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Focus on rewarding your puppy for the desired behavior!

A puppy biting a toy.

Safe Chewing Options 

Chewing is a natural puppy behavior, but some toys and treats can cause problems. Here’s how to keep your puppy safe:  

  • Ask Your Vet: Consult your vet about safe chew options for your puppy’s size and dietary needs. Some chews can cause fractured teeth or digestive issues.
  • Avoid Hard Chews: Use the “knee test”: if a chew hurts when you hit it against your knee or can’t be indented with a fingernail, it’s too hard for your puppy – or any dog!
  • Toppl or Kong Toys: Fill these toys with safe, dog-friendly foods like peanut butter (without xylitol), applesauce, cheese, or plain yogurt. Freeze the filling for a longer-lasting treat.
  • Monitor Bully Sticks: If you do allow your puppy to have bully sticks or similar chew toys, ensure they are large enough for your puppy’s size to prevent choking.  Once they become small, remove them to avoid emergencies. 

Someone holding a clicker and a puppy in the background lying down on the floor.

General Tips for Training Success 

  • Stay Positive: Training can be frustrating, but your puppy senses your mood. Stay calm and patient.
  • Plan ahead: Use tools like long leashes, crates, exercise pens, tethers, toys, and special treats to manage behavior before issues arise. 
  • Consistency is Key: Puppies thrive on routine and repetition so stick to consistent commands and rewards to help them improve. 

A person holding a puppy, who has their paws on the person's shoulders.

Training a puppy is a challenging but rewarding experience. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the ups and downs of puppyhood and build a strong, joyful bond with your furry friend. Remember, every step forward is progress—you’ve got this! 

Paws Abilities Dog Training offers classes in Rochester/Oronoco, Inver Grove Heights, and St. Louis Park, with private lessons available for dog owners in Minnesota, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin. Their range of classes includes obedience training, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), dog sports and jobs, reactive dog rehabilitation, and fun lessons like boredom busters and adventures. Visit their website to learn more! 

 

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